Hello, I'm Julie! I've made my way from Maine to Boston to Pittsburgh to Philly... and back again, and blogged about it along the way. Currently: Portland, ME. Check out my About page or F.A.Q. below to learn more about me. Thanks for reading!
It's here! Shopbop's Buy More, Save More Sale, i.e Shopbop's biggest sale of the year. I always wait for this sale to get myself something special and this year is no different – I have my eye on a pair of classic over the knee boots, afaux fur jacket, or a great statement bag. Shopbop's sales are the perfect time to snag that special piece you've had your eye on, or band together with coworkers or friends to take advantage of the tiered discounts – and the perfect time to pick up something special for the holidays (like these under $50 stocking stuffers and these pretty hair clips):
Despite the little hint of summer we received last weekend, I am 100% ready for fall, and it seems fall is 100% here. The leaves are changing and collecting on the sidewalks, nights have been cooler, and it seems it's officially time to swap my closet over from summer to fall and make my list of items I'd like to add to my wardrobe for the season. Perfect timing for the Shopbop Event of the Season Sale! I always look forward to Shopbop's sales because they're the perfect time to add that one special item to my closet, or join up with friends to save on seasonal must-haves. Last year I added a gorgeous White + Warren cashmere robe to my closet and this year I have my eye on a few special things...
This season, I'm on the search for the perfect animal-print bag (love these – especially those croco options), a great statement-making headband (obsessed with that polkadot number), and some modern hiking boots (what's better with dresses in fall than a classic pair of lug-soled boots?).
What makes this sale so great? It includes full-price and sale items (in fact, a pair of my favorite sunglasses are on major sale), and the more you buy, the more you save:
Take 20% off orders under $500 & 25% off orders over $500 with the code STOCKUP19
According to reports, it rained for 15 our of 30 days in April. That's not including days, like today, when it was simply cloudy and rather threatening outside. According to my mind, it's been raining for three months straight. Believe whoever you want, but one thing is true: it's been wet. And cold. And if you didn't already own a raincoat, the current weather has made a pretty solid argument for picking one up (these are pretty cute). Besides the one above that I wear for hiking and general outdoor use, I don't actually own a proper raincoat for day-to-day wear, so I thought I'd round up some favorites! I tried to keep this list as environmentally-friendly as possible, though as you might imagine that's hard to do when it comes to protective outerwear. My advice? Find a great one for hiking and something you really, really love for every other day. There's a little something for everyone below – from rugged and trail-ready to a truly drool-worthy frosted number:
(tap the pic to be taken directly to the products shown)
Classics: You really can't go wrong with a classic anorak-style jacket. Whether you wear it cropped like this one, or opt for a longer style, a clean, streamlined rain jacket goes with nearly everything.
Sport: I wear my LL Bean Mountain Classic nearly every weekend when we're out in the woods, so I would absolutely recommend picking up a packable jacket. Really loving that chartreuse jacket, the pink and red are also packable (the red folds up into a little pouch - handy!)
Currently re-acclimating after spending the past four days in Brooklyn. And by "re-acclimating" I mean I traveled from 70 and sunny in Williamsburg to 30 and actively snowing here in Maine. Woof. This weather was so unexpected, everyone's out of salt for the roads and most equipment has been stored for the season - so yeah, it's the rare occasion that we're all a little unprepared up here. And it's made me even more excited for warm weather – especially my warm weather wardrobe. I've been looking for a few special pieces to add to my summer closet and today Shopbop is kicking off their big spring sale – save 20% off orders under $500 and 25% off orders of $500+ with the code EVENT19! (some exclusions apply - see all sale details here)
Code: EVENT19 20% off orders under $500 25% off orders of $500 or more Offer expired April 12, 2019 at 11:59pm PT
By now, you know I love a Shopbop sale – they're the perfect way to score on something special you've had your eye on (I bought my Staud bucket bag during the last one and saved a bundle - so in love with the new light blue color BTW), or team up with co-workers or friends to get a deal.
Personally, I can't wait to pack away my boots and heavy sweaters (although you could argue that now is a great time to stock up on sale coats and discounted sweaters) in favor of lighter options. SO what am I looking for? Glad you asked...
Splitting my time between working from home and the physicality of the others aspects of my job means clothes have to be highly functional – so I'm looking for a couple of special day dresses that can go from couch (aka my office) to sourcing vintage furniture. You all know I love a midi dress especially if it looks good with sneakers– and these are always my warm weather go-to.
Some of my staple pieces from last year are looking a little tired, so I'm grabbing a few super soft basics (love that some come in a pack!) to wear with statement skirts and vintage pants and – let's be real – leggings
I'm dipping my toes in the neon trend in the smallest way possible – with a pair of neon sunglasses (I got the orange but I'm really torn on the green!)
Well here we are, it's December 19th. Christmas is just days away and I am, per usual, unprepared. I give bloggers who manage to get multiple gift guides published per season while somehow maintaining at least the veneer of got-it-together-ness so much credit – for me, something happens every December. I start off strong, but by the 15th, I've melted into a pile of nerves and self-induced stress. Anyway, all that to say I'm still finishing up my shopping this week (thank you, Amazon prime) and I thought I'd share a few personal favorites here – you know, in the event I'm not the only one still shopping (guys, I don't even have a tree).
These home gifts would be sweet for a favorite couple or a friend who's nesting and loving these sweet children's presents for little ones (those knit rattles! so cute!) and when all else fails – you can't go wrong with a cute pair of pajamas
This sleek home diffuser would be lovely for a mom or sister (or as a gift for yourself)
For the sweet kitty in your life, you can't go wrong with this insanely cool spaceship cat bed
This cookbook would be perfect for the cook in your life (or someone obsessed with fermentation)
For your best friend who just needs to relax, this set of sheet masks is self-care heaven
This is the candle that makes Anthropologie smell so good... need I say more?
Oprah says these slippers are her favorite thing – and I'm apt to believe her. Perfect for your mom or anyone else who could use a little cozy in their life.
I'm calling it... snake print is a neutral. After spending all summer in my favorite Birkenstocks and sneakers, I'm so excited that boot weather is finally here. As much as I love the get-up-and-go nature of summer, I always look forward to the outfit options that fall brings forth – and of course, shopping for it all. This year, I'm especially enamored with adding printed boots and booties as the finishing touch on an otherwise simple look of a cozy sweater and classic coat. These snake print boots have become a staple in my wardrobe in the short time I've had them and I'm looking forward to wearing them all season long and straight into winter (just add some thick socks - these are my faves for under boots - or plush tights like these). Below I'm sharing a few more favorites because winter is long (at least in Maine) so why not have some fun?
In this outfit: Vintage thrifted coat, & Other Stories Sweater, Reformation jeans, vintage earrings
Happy FRIDAY! And more importantly, happy Memorial Day Weekend! This week dragged on, but I'm thrilled it's not only the kick-off to a long weekend but beautiful outside today. Per usual, they're calling for rain this weekend (it always seems to rain on Memorial Day here), but I'm just happy to have some time off. This weekend I'm planning on unplugging a bit and maybe heading to the mall (who am I?!) and some thrift stores to find some clothing fit for interviewing in. I'm on the job hunt again (it's a good thing! A really good thing) and realizing that after working remotely for two years, my wardrobe is either dresses or completely casual - nothing in between. Also on my shopping list? A swimsuit I can surf in (but who are we kidding, Maine is wetsuit season all year round) and some self-tanner (ha). I'm also hoping to hang some art in our apartment and finish decorating our patio. What do you have planned? Enjoy it, friends!
Sharing links and some of my picks from this weekend's MAJOR sales below - for style and home, because they're really, really good:
If there's one style of dress that populates my closet the most, it's the wrap dress. Specifically, midi-length wrap dresses. Usually from Free People if I'm being fully transparent (they just get me). I'm of the opinion that this just might be the most flattering and easy-to-wear silhouette out there, gorgeous on every body type and all around comfortable regardless of the occasion. Need a wedding guest dress? Wear a wrap dress. Funeral? Wrap dress. Roaming Pittsburgh with too much time on your hands? ...Wrap dress! Add a pair of cute slides or sneakers (like these), and you're done.
That last one was me this past weekend. Chris and I were back in the 'Burgh for a friend's wedding and I decided to stray a bit from my standard jeans-and-tank-and-Birks combo in favor of a couple of dressier outfits (shocking, I know). The weather was sporadic, as it tends to be in Pittsburgh, so between the rainstorms and hot, muggy afternoons, this yellow number (from FP last summer) was the perfect thing to keep me (mostly) cool. After so many months of wearing layer upon heavy layer, it feels groundbreaking to put on literally two pieces and call it good. All hair the wrap dress + Birkenstock combo! Here are a few more faves:
It's finally at least looking a little like spring here in Maine, in the sense irises and crocuses' are attempting to bloom and people are desperately wearing shorts in 30 degree weather (really). While the temperature is remaining stubbornly below freezing, my mind is set on spring and summer and warmer days – and seeking out the perfect accompaniments for the vintage and thrifted pieces already in my closet. This year I've been buying almost exclusively secondhand, but love how easy it is to compliment a mostly-vintage look with a fresh silhouette. I've been a Shopbop shopper for years and always turn to the site for denim, basics and the perfect pair of shoes or a wedding guest-worthy dress – you can't go wrong with free shipping and free returns (which I use constantly because denim), and of course, their major sales – like the one happening NOW.
From April 10th, 2018 - April 14th, 2018, take 20% off orders under $500 and 25% off orders of $500 or more with code EVENT18 at checkout.Find all sale details here.
These sales are the perfect time to pair up with friends, family or style-obsessed coworkers to save on the perfect piece for the season ahead – a cute bikini, go-with-everything sneakers, or a laid-back bag. Below are a few of the things I have my eye on, you know... if spring ever decides to get here. Until then, I'll be dressing cute in front of my space heater for the foreseeable future.
How was everyone's holiday? We had a super relaxing day, filled with lots of snow - in all I believe we got 8 inches! After a big breakfast (and subsequent nap), we spent part of the day snowshoeing before visiting some friends around town. Second only to last year's solo Christmas, this might have been our most relaxing holiday yet. Today it's back to the grind, and I'm softening the blow by doing a little sale shopping. If you're doing the same, the four below should keep you occupied (psst... the Shopbop sale is killer).
Fall is here and with it, the invitation to bundle up. I haven't quite done the whole seasonal closet switcheroo yet, but my mind has officially been set to 'autumn' for the past couple of weeks, which means I've been looking for a few special pieces to liven up my wardrobe and make things feel fresh. Lucky for me (and YOU), Shopbop's 3-day sale is here! Now is the perfect time to splurge on that perfect pair of boots you've been drooling over (helloooo Stuart Weitzman otk boots!), stock up on necessities, or pair up with family, friends and coworkers to take advantage of the savings.
With my new schedule this season, I'll definitely be grabbing a pair of city-friendly Chelsea boots (love these!) and am on the hunt for the perfect fall jacket. I've also been thinking ahead to cold winter days, and think I might need a new pair of cute winter boots. Sorel has always been a favorite of mine (and almost everyone else in New England), and paired with a cute winter hat they'll keep me warm all winter long. Also on my list? Some cute and comfy lingerie (love everything here), a great bomber jacket, and a new pair of Levi's jeans (because you can never go wrong with Levi's).
From now through midnight PST on October 14th, spend up to $500 and get 25% off your order or spend over $500 and receive 30% off your order with the code MAINEVENT16. (some exclusions apply)
This year, for the first time in what seems like forever, it actually feels like we're getting a real, true spring. Cooler days, interspersed with temps reaching the high 70s, spring flowers lingering on the trees, and April making good on its reputation for 'April showers' (it's been so rainy!). Rather than just jumping right into summer maxi dresses and easy, breezy fabrics, I've actually been delving into spring style this year, and thinking of ways to make the transition from cold to warm weather a little easier. Here in the Northeast, I've never thought it necessary to have a full spring wardrobe, the change of seasons is usually so drastic that 'spring' is about two weeks long, going from snowy days to 80% humidity in no time flat, but, like I said, this year is different, and it's been necessary to actually think about spring style, rather than just biding my time.
Regarding the trends I've seen pop up this spring, there are two things I'm especially appreciative of:
1. Comfort is back in the form of sneakers and looser silhouettes.
and
2. With a few tweaks, it's fairly easy to make pieces currently hanging in your closet feel fresh again, either with a simple DIY or just rethinking the way you wear it.
Below are a few ways I'm updating my closet for the current weather. Perfect for the cooler days we've been having and super easy to transition with lighter pieces once the temperature inevitably skyrockets in like, five days:
Add one awesome accessory: After years of over-accessorizing, I've been paring back with just a couple of rings, a favorite bracelet, or just a lace tied around my neck. Spring and summer are a time to go minimal. You don't want to be weighed down by too much jewelry or a heavy handbag when the temperature is warm and adventure is calling. Keep it simple and let one great piece compliment and elevate the rest of your look, I recently picked up the arrowhead necklace pictured above from Moorea Seal, and love it paired with white-on-white jeans and a tee and black boots.
click on images to shop
Embrace a new silhouette: I don't know about you, but lately I just haven't had the energy for skinny jeans. Know what I mean? The thought of wrangling myself into tight denim just isn't my thing these days, which has turned out to be a really good thing! The variety of silhouettes available lately for denim and beyond means experimenting with different shapes is easier than ever. Loose denim, until recently, reminded me a little too much of my slouchy high school self, but after purchasing a couple pairs of Levi's, I'm all in. I especially love the Wedgie Icon and 501 CT cuts, they're so flattering, so comfortable and work with both flats and heels, depending on your mood. While you're at it, grab a pair of flares, you won't be sorry. Avoid feeling like a high schooler by pairing them with low-heeled boots, a simple top, and minimal accessories.
Grab some sneakers: Holy jesus am I happy sneakers are a thing. I mean, not that they were never a thing, but their popularity means that the options on hand are seemingly endless and readily available. I just picked up a pair of checkered Vans, and can't wait to pair them with jeans now, and simple dresses and skirts later. Also, now's your chance to finally get those shell toes you always wanted in high school, but could never afford (or was that just me??). Either way, sneakers-with-everything, and my feet have never been happier.
Go off-the-shoulders: I love how an off-the-shoulder top or dress instantly adds intrigue to virtually any outfit. It's an easy look to pull off, and the interest added by bared shoulders means the rest of the outfit can be left pretty minimal. Maybe tie a bandana around your neck, maybe add a pretty choker. Whether you do or not, you'll still look great.
Fray your hems: Yes, frayed hems have been a thing for awhile now, but if you're not digging the ultra-distressed look or are just sick of a too-long hem, this might be the cheapest and most interesting way to solve a common problem. I recently hacked off the hem of a shirt that felt a bit too 'maternity' to me, and I love the flared, slightly cropped look I ended up with. Fraying the hems of your jeans also means you can get the exact length you're looking for, no guesswork.
My favorite Valentine's Day date of all time took place at a monster truck rally in Pittsburgh. No dinner, no movie, no romantic candles, just giant trucks crushing other trucks shooting flames. Also nachos. It was awesome, and ever since, Chris and I have made a point to seek out something different to do on February 14th. This year, we're thinking of checking out the Philadelphia Tattoo Convention.
Now, just because I choose to eschew the typical doesn't mean I consider myself to be one of those Valentine's cynics grumbling about the holiday being invented by Hallmark -- frankly I don't care -- I actually really love it. In the middle of an otherwise blustery, cold month, I'll take any reason to celebrate, dress in pink and red, and proclaim my love for friends and family. And it's not that I have anything against dinner and a movie, or any other strain of "traditional" dates, it's just that I'd rather not be surrounded by a bunch of other couples, cloaked in a cloud of expectations and pressures of ROMANCE. I'd much rather seek out something beyond the ordinary, something we haven't done yet or seen yet, that we'll continue to talk about long after the day passes ("Hey, remember the time we finally got to see Gravedigger? Yeah, that was awesome.") Plus, there's the whole process of simply discovering the out of the box events and things to do happening around you. Who knows where the day will take you -- a demolition derby? A unique museum? Whatever you plan, you're sure to leave with a story and some new friends (after that demolition derby we went out for dinner -- and by "dinner" I mean hotdogs... -- only to realize mid-way through how absolutely, laughably, horrifically filthy we were. Completely covered in dust.)
Even though I might shy away from the traditionally romantic, I still love dressing up for the occasion. A little lace, a new dress... really, deep down I'm just looking for an excuse to add something pretty and heart-shaped to my closet. Another way to brighten up an otherwise gloomy month (love Valentines Day, not such a fan of February). I've had my eye on a few pretty things lately, and today I'm sharing a few of my favorites. Heart shaped glasses, a sweet card, a little lace, maybe add a funny bag... and you'll be sure to steal hearts.
Confession: I, like the rest of the world it seems, love shopping for fall. And I've been very shoppy lately. After ridding myself of seven trash bags worth of extraneous stuff last month, I have room in my life and my closet for a few new, special things. This time around, though, I'm going for the classics. Those special items that can elevate everything. A really great hat. A one and only pair of black skinny jeans. So yes, you could say I'm excited for the Shopbop Friends & Family Sale, which kicks off today. Shopbop has long been one of my favorite places to find key pieces for my wardrobe -- and the free shipping certainly helps.
Starting today and running through October 15, 2015, at 11:59pm PT, take 25% off your entire order. If you're on the hunt for a new winter coat or a great pair of Chelsea boots, now is the time to take advantage. Check out a few of my personal must-haves, above, and be sure to use the code 'INTHEFAM25' at checkout.
Can you feel it? That little hint of something in the air? A new season is right around the corner (really! The first day of spring is just 17 days away!), and naturally my brain has turned to warm weather style. Forget sweaters, forget heavy socks... I'm ready to kiss all of that goodbye in favor of easy, breezy dresses, light jackets, light tees and jeans. There's a reason we all seem to wax poetic when a new season arrives, it gives us something to look forward to, a light at the end of the tunnel for those of us stuck in the dregs of winter. Plus, doesn't there just come a time when you just can't even bear to put on yet another sweater? That's how I feel at least...
I've mentioned before how I'm carefully updating my closet this year. Methodically, slowly acquiring just a few key pieces to make things feel fresh, and today I'm sharing my tips for switching seasons on a budget. Because as much as my virtual carts are filled to the brim, it's mostly my own closet I'll be shopping.
Know What You Have: Personally, I deal with very, very little closet space, so things tend to get stuffed to the back of my closet and shoved into drawers just to make it all fit. I also pack away any clothes that are season-specific, so yeah, it can be easy to forget what I have, which makes it easy to think I have nothing to wear. Every few weeks I'll go through and straighten up, which is a great time to take stock and get thinking for the transitional time ahead. Pull out any pieces you know you're not going to wear for the remainder of the current season and box them up -- voila! Instant space.
Shop Your Closet: "Shopping your closet" sounds like an obvious concept (like, it's basically just wearing clothes... that you own), but it can be so easy to fall into a rut and wear the same variation day after day (I am incredibly guilty of this).While you're reorganizing, take some time to pull out the pieces you love that haven't been worn in awhile. Now is a great time to rethink them and plan for the week ahead. Hang a few favorites where they'll be visible, and make sure they get put back in rotation.
Gather Inspiration & Make a List: As you think to to the season ahead and re-org the current season hanging in your closet, be sure to gather inspiration as it comes to you. This could be a season-specific pin board or good old-fashioned magazine tears, however you decide to do it, keeping your inspiration on hand not only helps pull together a vision for the season ahead, but is also there whenever you need a little last minute AM inspiration.
Shop smart: Once you've decided what you want to add to your wardrobe, it's time to decide where you're going to get it. I always turn to thrift stores first, but I focus on a few key categories: Accessories, coats & jackets, and stand-out pieces. I usually ignore the jeans (they never fit how I want them to), and occasionally scan through the tee shirts, dresses, and skirts. See my thrift tips here for more thrift store inspiration. Resale shops like Buffalo Exchange and Avalon Exchange are another favorite of mine for current shoe styles and secondhand designer pieces (last week I saw an Isabel Marant top at Buffalo for $20... and I scooped up these moccasins for $40). I also bring any old pieces I no longer want and sell to those stores, either walking away with some cash or store credit to put towards future closet must-haves.
After exhausting my second-hand options, I keep my eyes peeled for sales from my favorite online retailers (I almost never shop in person) to grab the pieces I would rather find new. Right now Shop Bop is having a pretty incredible sale, valid from today, March 3rd through Saturday March 7, 2015, at 11:59 PM (PT):
The Big Event 15% off orders of $250+ 20% off orders of $500+ 25% off orders of $1000+ Use Code BIGEVENT15 at Checkout
(includes sale section & full-price -- full details here)
Now, before you balk at a sale threshold (I don't have $500 to drop either), here's where shopping smart comes in: Pair up! I work in an office full of women. Women who love clothes just as much as I do, and are just as sale-savvy. If there's a piece you've been eyeing, ask friends and family and see if anyone else wants in. I can almost guarantee someone will, especially with a new season on the horizon. You get what you want (and only what you want) and your friends do too and you same some major cash -- genius. Here's what I'm eyeing for the new season:
A few other sale sections I always keep an eye on: ModCloth, Urban Outfitters, J.Crew and Nasty Gal. And don't forget the discount days at Salvation Army, ha! (but seriously)
Think beyond the seasons: As much as I look forward to a mini refresh when a new season is approaching, in reality I try to think of how versatile the pieces I'm considering purchasing will be. Can I see myself wearing something beyond the current season? Will a new piece work with at least three different outfit variations? Could this dress pair with tights/boots/sandals? The longer I can envision myself wearing something, the more value it has. Strive for quality and long-time-wear, and your closet will be that much more versatile.
(a few of my favorite shoes, all of which are over 5 years old)
Out of everything in my closet, there are two pieces that get worn the most: my brown sandals and denim cut-offs. While these pieces- at least the shorts- don't make frequent appearances on this blog, these are the pieces that inevitably get worn to death each summer. Not so much coping mechanisms, as simply a celebration of weather that allows me to wake up and throw on the same thing everyday - at least when I'm not at work.
Today, I'm starting a new feature that highlights the essentials of my closet, the things you may not see too often- or maybe you do- but make up the foundation of my wardrobe. Hopefully you can find it helpful when seeking out these items for yourself!
1.
I recently thrifted a gauzy white button-up and instantly fell in love.
It's light and airy and feels even cooler than a t-shirt in hot
weather. Paired with my staple cut-offs or jeans, it has the power to transform a
schlubby outfit into something that looks like I actually tried. Look for a slightly over-sized piece that ties easily at your hips, I've seen many a linen oxford shirt in the men's section of the thrift store!
2.
I'm addicted to linen blend tee's and tanks, they're so much breezier
than traditional cotton blends and just breathe easier. Plus, they have
the added benefit of- again- looking like you care, when you really don't. These aren't as easily thrifted, but check the sale racks at J.Crew and Madewell for marked-down styles. If you take care of them (i.e. don't throw them in the dryer), they'll last forever and only get softer,
3. If there's one thing that gets me through the summer
with my sanity intact, it's these cross-back bras from American Apparel.
To me, there is nothing worse than wearing a bunch of padding and foam
against your body on a 90 degree day...or even any day. I know low-profile
bras aren't for everyone (especially if you're more... endowed than I), but I personally love them. The three of these that I own are still going strong after a year and a half of wear. Highly, highly recommend.
4. I often find myself at the library on particularly hot days,
browsing books and magazines while taking full advantage of the air
conditioning. A big straw tote is sturdy and roomy enough to fit plenty
of books, along with any veggies or fruits I buy at the stand outside. Check your local thrift store, or etsy and ebay for vintage options.
5. Sunglasses that don't get tangled in my hair.Sunglasses are such a personal preference, but I love a round, oversized pair that goes with everything.
6. When it's especially warm out, I don't have too much patience for
jewelry. I usually turn to earrings, but also love a stack of bright
bracelets.
7. Brown sandals. These do not leave my feet. I have others, but the
sandals I scored at Marshall's awhile back are simply the best and I
force them to go with everything. I love a crazy shoe for the office or
occasional fancy date, but in the summer, I need to be able to move easily.
8. I have been living in this particular pair of wine-colored shorts
from American Eagle since I bought them. They're the perfect length for
me, not too short, not too long. They don't ride up, and it's easy
enough to dress them up or down. I also bought them in white, and now
want them in every other color.
No 'Over the Weekend' post today, it was cold and gloomy and I stayed inside and did indoor things: cleaned, read, sewed, baked, snuggled cats. Instead, I've been thinking that it would be great to gather up your comments and suggestions in a weekly advice-type post (not to replace my weekend posts, but this works for today). Whether I'm asking for advice on managing stress, shopping, or how to calm down, you- readers and fellow bloggers- always have inspiring and helpful things to share!
In this post, I asked what your shopping "rules" were, or if you had any at all. As I mentioned in that post, if I can't imagine three different ways of styling a piece with wardrobe items I already own, I typically don't purchase it. I don't always apply this to thrifting because I usually find my 'statement' pieces in a thrift store. Like many other avid thrifters, I also use second-hand shopping as a way to try out trends before buying into them (hello, midi skirts). My other shopping rules? I don't purchase basics second hand (they're usually gnarly), and when shopping new, I try to purchase the majority of my clothes second hand and try to avoid H&M and F21. Now, I said try- I don't always succeed- It is so easy to get sucked in! When I do find myself in those stores, before I purchase something I envision all of the items I have bought previously from those stores, and remind myself how few of them are actually still in my closet. So much of that stuff ends up being donated after only a few months, and in my book, that's just not worth it.
Here's what you had to say about shopping:
Kulter und Stil: "I normally have a list with things that I miss in my closet - but that
doesn't mean that I only allow myself to buy these things, it's just
something for me to have better in mind what I need. and then, yes, my
biggest rule is: before buying something I go through my closet and put
together at least 5 (different) outfits with the "new" item, and if I
don't have any things to combine with the new thing, I normally leave it
in the shop or I buy it and go once more through my closet at home and
then either keep it or bring it back. I really don't want things
"sleeping" in my closet, only because I have nothing to wear with
them...
Nautical Owl: "...Generally speaking, I like to go out with an outfit in mind, something I
might of seen on a blog, and then try to find a similar match. If I
don't really have a "list", then I end up spending way too much and
stuff just ends up sitting in my closet..."
Charmaine: "My rule is to only buy 1 item. I've bought 2 & 3 items at a time
before & I always end up liking the first one & then the other
ones are a waste of space & money. So, now I force myself to decide
on my favourite in the store...no more wasted money & wasted
clothes."
Sweet Harvest Moon: "Before buying an item, I must think of at least 4 outfits!"
A Stylized Hysteria: "I don't think I have any shopping rules except trying to avoid paying full-price for anything!"
Evolution of a Wallflower: "When I'm shopping in "real stores" (I mostly thrift), I tend to think
about the versatility of pieces, and whether or not I could find
something similar and cheaper at a thrift store. Most of the time, the
thrift store wins. When it comes to thrifting, though, I don't really
have any rules. Thrifting just makes it easier to try out trends for
super cheap."
Lady a la Mode: "I try to not be [swayed] by other opinions - if I love something, that's
all that matters. I also ask myself if I can see myself wearing the
piece with at least 5 things I already have... if I can't I do my best
to leave it behind, but on those certain occasions I just have to take
it home regardless"
Jasie Plays at Adulthood: "As far as my own rules of utility, my entire
aesthetic is based on uniform-building. Pretty much EVERYTHING in my
closet is utilitarian in nature. To some it may be boring, but for a fat
girl on a budget who wants to look amazing and who can't shop in most
stores, that basic uniform formula is a real life-saver."
Suits and Skirts: "It's funny, I have similar rules about purchasing full-price,
non-thrifted, particularly more expensive items.... it needs to be a
classic, or, I feel very unique without being too trendy. my other big
rule, which ties in with being classic, is if I can style it for the
office, as well as for play. Then it is a golden piece and I move
forward!"
2 or 3 Things:"I only have a few rules: unless something is hugely on sale, I try to
avoid places whose business models I have issue with, like UO or
Anthropologie or Free People (the CEO of the three companies contributes
loads of money to the Republican party), but I'm not so good at
following this rule since the brands are all marketed towards the exact
demographic the CEO probably finds abhorrent. One really important rule,
however, is bikeability: would I be able to bike in the outfit? This
sounds silly but since I bike to and from work/campus every day, I
wouldn't want to own that many clothes I'm not able to bike in.
Thankfully I bike in all kinds of clothes, even skirts and dresses, as
long as I can move my lefts comfortably!"
