Family Thrift Outlet Haul #4

On my recent trip to my local Family Thrift Outlet, I found some of the best things I've thrifted in a long time. I found a lot of coats, because winter is coming (not really, but I like to pretend), and you can never have enough coats; even though I live in Texas. I found a couple of hadbags and a handful of tops that are perfect transitional pieces. Oh and all my finds were $2 a piece because I went on a Thursday! 

Coats:

1. Vintage 80's Bloomingdale's Fringe Coat - $2

You can immediatly tell the high quality of the wool, which I love! The coat is a little out there for me, but I have some fringe booties that it'll go perfectly with. I'll honestly wear this once though...

2. Vintage 60's Mink Collar Coat - $2 

I've never found a nice 60's coat at the thrift store, much less a coat with mink! For $2 too! I think this coat is too long, so I'm going to get it hemmed (yes, I've gotten lazy) a little below the last button. I slightly panicked when I felt that stuff was in the pockets, but it happened to be ballons and a bundle of rice. I imagine the last time it was worn was to a wedding. The tulle and ribbon of the bundle is definatley vintage, so I wonder if the owner purchased the coat for the wedding. I love the mysteries of a garment's past life. The coat came from Monning's department store in Ft.Worth, which has been closed since the 90's. A coat like this would cost me about $125; so I saved about $123.

3. Gap Toggle Coat - $2

I've always wanted a red toggle coat with a hood, but I will settle for a black hoodless one. I'm not a Gap fan due to their unethical practices, but I justifed my purchase since it's secondhand. I'm thinking it'll give my cableknit sweaters a classic touch. I found a similar toggle coat on their website which is shorter than this mine and currently on sale; it originally retailed for $168. I saved about $166!

4. Vintage 40's/50's Coat -$2

I want to say this is late 40's, early 50's. I couldn't find much information on the label. I fell in love with the deep red color and the choir boy sleeves. The sleeves create this cool effect that makes it look like you're wearing a cape. I know I'm going to be wearing this piece A LOT! Especially since it's so lightweight and has pockets.

Tops:

1. Kaftan Blouse - $2

There isn't anything too signigicant about this piece, but it'll be nice to wear until the days actually get cooler.

2.  Free People Tunic - $2

It's always a good thrift haul when you find Free People! It's one of my favorite brands to find and wear. I can picture with my green cargo blouse and brown ankle booties or just plain with sandals. A tunic similar to this would cost about $78, so I saved about $76. 

3. Old Navy Boat Print Sweater - $2

Another Gap company product that I contemplated on purchasing. I just really want to wear it with the sleeves rolled up and with high waisted shorts for that cool oversized look. I might try to shrink it or take it in from the sides if it's too bulky. You know how sometimes outfits look better in your mind than in person (happens all the time to me!).

4. H&M Lace Top - $2

Lace is a staple for fall and winter. I don't have any all lace blouses, so I was happy to find a black one! It looks a little boxy, but it's easily fixable. Lace is always a great way to add texture to any outfit.

5. Gap Draped Blouse - $2

I swear this is the last Gap item from this haul! After typing this, I feel a bit guilty for buying these items, but I really liked them! 

6. Peasant Style Blouse - $2

Perfect for warm fall days and my Stetson floppy hat! 

7. Hunter Green Draped Top - $2

This style of draped tops really make me think of L'agence. It'll be perfect with black jeans!

8. Nude Lace Top

I was happy to find another basic nude lace top! I think it'll look amazing with with the red jacket and dark wash jeans. 

9. Trunkfit Tee - $2

Ok, I had no idea this label is by Lil Wayne! LOL! I just really liked the mixed materials and the cool patch. I have this pair of distressed jeans with paint splatters and this tee is perfect for those jeans. 

Handbags:

1. Vintage Dooney & Bourke All Weather Leather Crossbody

My second vintage Dooney find! I was excited to find it and love that it's a crossbody! I've already used it and given it a personal touch with a fur pom. A crossbody like this costs around $100, so I saved about $98. 

2. Vintage Fendi - $2

I nearly died when I snatched this Fendi bag! It's one of my favorite luxury brands, so I'm excited to have my own piece. It's definately authentic and something similar costs about $70, so I saved about $68. Funny how the vintage Dooney's are more valuable than the vintage Fendi's. I love both, but definately prefer the Fendi, all I'm missing is a Fendi Fur Monster!  

For 15 items, I spent $30 and saved at least $538!

I think I got pretty lucky with my finds! Can't wait for the next thursday I go! 

-A.

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Dressing Conservatively

Last week I had the opportunity to help with a St. John Knits runway show. I had to dress in all black (extremely common) and consevatevely. I'm not one to usually show a lot of skin, but it was still a challenge to look conservative yet youthful. 

I almost wore a dress, but if you've ever worked backstage at a runway show, you know it's not always the best idea. I decided to go with loose fitting slacks and a silk Escada blouse that I found brand new with tags at the thrift store!!!

On the tags it says Margaretha Ley and I'm not sure if it's something different from other Escada pieces. I have a few pieces without her name or at least I don't think so. I know that she has passed, but by from the Neiman Marcus tags and style of the blouse, I'm pretty sure it's not vintage. Let me know if you have any info! 

Blouse: Escada via Family Thrift Center (McCart Location) - $7

Slacks: Borrowed From my mom! :D

Purse: Faux Chanel via Random thrift store - $1

Shoes: Forever 21 - $15

I love that blouse is sleeveless and has a scoop neck, so I wasn't completely covered up. I would say the look was tasteful without aging myself. Funnily enough, later that day someone asked me if I was still in high school. I'll take that compliment! 

-A.

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Shades of Pink

Pink is one of my least favorite colors. I only have maybe 3 pink things? I did fall in love with this dainty and whimsical Johnny Was tunic from this Family Thrift Outlet haul. 

I kept the look super airy, light and fresh by pairing the tunic with light wash jeans. I also finally wore these Coach sandals that I bought at the end of last summer for a ridiculously good deal. I've been keeping my looks really simple and accessorie free. I'm trying to figure out how to incorporate my massive brooch collection into everyday wear...

Sorry about the weird lighting!

Tunic: Johnny Was via Family Thrift Outlet - $2

Jeans: Rag & Bone via Intermix - $75 (org. $198) 

Wedges: Coach via Dillard's - $30 (org. $150)

What are colors that you least like to wear?

-A. 

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Fall Ready!

The days aren't as hot (maybe..), so I've started to layer my clothes. I've retired that olive green vest that I lived in all last summer and I've moved on to this olive lightweight jacket/heavy button up from Banana Republic! I've already worn it several times and with several different ways.

The trick to layering during warm days, is by wearing sheer/superlight weight and sleeveless tops underneath.

This was definately a great outfit to wear on a rainy day. As for the accessories, I added a gold tassel bracelet, a pair of handcuff rings(!), and the vintage leather purse with studded with coins that I've been obsessed with. 

Olive Utility Button Down - Banana Republic - $12 (Same One!)

Smocked Sleeveless Tank - Simply Vera via McCart Thrift Center - $3

Frame Denim "Le Skinny de Jeanne" - Intermix - $130ish (Same!)

White Converse - 3rd Party Purchase - $40 (Same!)

How do you feel about layering while the days are still warm?

-A. 

Skirts on Skirts

It's been a minute since I went thrifting...Ha! Not really! I should probably focus on actually showing you my outfits, but I'm too excited about showing you all the fun things I find.

I was running out about when I decided to stop at Family Thrift Center's Arlington location. I try not to go as much so I can go to the outlet's $2 Thursday, but not everything makes it to the outlet. 

I didn't find much, but I did get lucky finding skirts! It's something that I usually struggle with, even when shopping at regular priced stores.

1. H&M Denim Skirt -$2.92

I was really surprised to find this denim A-line mini, just because they're so in right now! You all know that I wear the one I have from F21 all the time, so I'm excited to have this one in a lighter wash and with different style pockets. 

2. Elie Tahari Pencil Skirt - $ 1.65

So, Tahari is super expensive! The front is pretty plain, but I loved all the faux leather detailing on the back and satin lining. I took a chance and hoped that it would fit me. Sure enough, it fits like a glove! I have no idea where I'll wear it to, but I suppose I could dress it down. A skirt like this normally costs $180 -$280? Talk about a deal! 

I also found the most amazing DKNY 3/4 velvet jacket!! The cool circular flounce sleeves and separating zipper are what makes it special. I splurged a bit and spent $10, but I think I'm going to get a lot of wear out of it. I can picture it with lace top, dark wash jeans, and brown ankle booties...is it Fall yet?!

I promise I'll start showing off more outfits and less hauls. Actually, more of a balance of both! I've found so many cool things and have lots of fun outfits to show you guys. 

-A.

National Thrift Day Finds '16

Last week was National Thrift Day! I didn't go out to miss the crowds, but here's my haul from the week prior. I think it still counts...

Tops:

1. RO & DE Blouse - $3.20 

What drew me to the blouse was the deep oxblood color and the high quality fabric. After doing my research, I found that you can find this brand at Nordstrom and Anthro. A top like this one typically runs about $35-$60. Since it's such a simple top, I can't wait to see all the outfits I can make out of it.

2. Mastin & Asa? Blouse - $2.40

Okay, so I can't read the label! I tried typing it several ways, but no luck. It's a great off the shoulder piece that I've worn to run errands. 

3. Vintage Kaftan Top - $2.40

I haven't decided if I like this one or not. It was one of those impulsive purchases...It has potential, so we'll see.

4. Embroidered, Lace Hem Blouse - $1.50

This one is way prettier in person! The embroidery and detailing really make it special, I think it's one of a kind. 

5. Denim Blouse - $3

If you can't tell, I'm obsessed with off the shoulder tops. I was so excited to find this one! I wore it in my last post! It's definitely a great transitional piece as well. 

Dresses:

1. Red by Valentino - $3

Words can't express how ecstatic I was to find this and to see it was my size. Red may be cheaper than the real deal, but a dress this style runs between $600-$800.

House Wear:

1. Vintage Dior for Neiman Marcus Robe - $ 2.50

I also got really lucky and found this vintage Dior robe! I think I'm going to hem to update the look. I saw a really similar one sell for $150 on Poshmark.

                                           



















                                                                  



I think I did well overall! I didn't find much, but the Valentino and Dior made up for it! Did you thrift on National Thrift Day? Did you find anything good?

-A.

Country Concert of my Dreams Outfit

Most of you know that I don't listen to country music, but I was asked what I would wear to a country concert. 

I'm clearly not your typical Texan girl that wears western style clothes. I do have a few pieces here and there. But, I like to make it more boho/modern/vintage inspired.

So here's what I would wear:

Top: Tagless via Thrifed - $3

Jeans: Cotton On - $20

Shoes: Charlotte Russe - $36

I actually wore this outfit out to see a Vivian Maier exhibit, but it can easily be transitioned into a country concert outfit.

I feel that the chambray off the shoulder top definitely gives the look a western vibe, but is still has my style/aesthetic by paring it with the black high waisted jeans. I might even throw on a turquoise necklace for a more western look.

No western look is complete with a pair of cowgirl boots! I don't own a pair, but if I could I would want these Butterflies & Flowers boots from King Ranch Saddle Shop! They have many options, but I really love this pair! I think they'll also go great with several of my boho outfits. 

King Ranch Saddle Shop has some a super large selection of both women's and men's boots, plus all these cool other items like luggage, home decor, furniture etc.

Which are your favorite pair of boots? Is my outfit western enough?

-A.

Chicago '16 Pt. 2

On my last day of being in Chicago, I spent it with family. I wish I could have seen everyone, but because it was such a short and last minute trip, I only saw two family members. 

What I did:

More like what didn't I do? My aunt is an amazing tour guide! We started out the day at the coolest coffee shop called The Perkolator. They had such a great playlist and it was so cute inside! I wish Dallas had something like it! 

After spending some time with my aunt, we picked up my cousin had lunch at Furious Spoon. A ramen place where they make their own noodles and play all hip hop music. I ordered the Chicken Shio Ramen, so good!!

We drove around and I was shown some of the cool neighborhoods in Chicago. I think my favorite was Lincoln Park. So many cute little shops. 

We ended the day at the Ed Paschke Art Center. His art is super vibrant, but I'm not quite sure what genre it would fall under. I'll update the post once I find out.

Here I am posing next to Canal Cinco, one of my favorite pieces that I saw. 

Jack romper via Lion & Witch - $52

Oh and of course, a Chicago trip isn't complete with a Chicago Dog from Superdawg!

And that was my 2 day trip in a nutshell! I know I'm missing a few things like the Urban Outfitter's Outlet (yes, it's a thing!) and David's Tea. 

-A. 

Chicago '16 Pt.1

About 3 weeks ago, I super spontaneously took a two day trip to Chicago. I covered so much ground in 2 days! It took me quite a few days to recover from how tired I was. It was tricky getting a good OOTD and balancing being a tourist; thus the semi-cheesy pictures!

Before I continue on with my post, I'd love to thank one of my best friends for making this trip possible and extremely memorable! I'd also like to thank my aunt and cousin for hanging out with me on VERY short notice. Love you guys! 

Okay, moving on!

Day 1:

What I Did:

I flew in super early with my friend and started out excursion with brunch in The Loop (neighborhood). After lunch we crossed the street to Millennium Park. My family is from Chicago and I've posted other Chicago posts before; this is the first in depth one I've done. Anyways, I had never seen The Bean. It was a must do for me! I will say that it didn't disappoint. It was a lot trickier to take a selfie with the reflection than I thought it would. 

We wandered through to the BP Bridge, which photos do not give it justice! The skyline views you can see from there are amazing! We crossed over to Daley Park and wandered around there for a bit.

We then made the journey to the Sear's Tower! That felt like an eternity because we got lost, but it was great to see downtown. It wasn't my first time at the sky deck, but it was fun to get into the glass rooms again! Funny enough, I blogged about the first and last time I went in. Look how much my style has changed! It's seriously been like 6 years....Do I look older? Do I look the same? 

As for what I wore, I kept it simple with a creme once was a blouse, but now is a crop top designer blouse from the thrift store!(of course!) I paired it casually with leggings from Costco.

Crop Top: Emanuel Ungaro Crepe Silk  - $3 via thrifted

Pants: Calvin Klein  - $20 via Costco 

That basically summed up my day! We ate at some restaurant in Rosemont, where our hotel was. I think the drive to the city was like 45 minutes? All I know is that there was a lot of traffic!

Part 2 will come up eventually, I have a couple of other posts that need to be prioritized. 

-A.

Family Thrift Outlet Haul #3//Too Cheap Blondes Event

After the amazing past two hauls, of course I'm going to keep going back to the outlet in Fort Worth! It's totally worth the drive. All these great pieces for $2 a piece!? Umm, yes please!

I was also excited to be invited to another Too Cheap Blondes event and be able to shop after hours. Less stressful!

I feel like I had better luck finding clothes this time. I actually avoided purses as much as I could, but still found a few.

Handbags:

1. Vintage 1950's/1960's Beaded Purse - $2

I couldn't pass this one up. I mean, could you?

2. Vintage Judith Leiber Quilted Bucket Bag - $2

This is the second Judith Leiber that I find. I couldn't resist the super soft leather and the fact that it was made in Spain. I was super surprised that this vintage bag runs around $350ish! It just needs a bit of cleaning, but I can't wait to whip this bad boy out!

Outerwear:

1. Claybrooke Jacket -$2

I'm obsessed. I love olive tones! I want to wear them year round! I actually wish they made more summer clothes with olive tones. I'm planning wearing this jacket A LOT in the fall/winter. I'm pretty sure I'm going to take it to Alaska with me as a layering piece. I couldn't find much info on the brand, except for it seems to be more like a men's clothing brand. Now,  I'm questioning if it's a men's jacket. Ha! I can never remember which side the buttons are supposed to be. Oh well! It fits and looks good. I couldn't find a base price to compare against it to, but I mean where else can you find a $2 jacket?

2. Christopher & Banks Granny Square Sweater - $2

I almost didn't take this piece, but sometimes all you need is a little imagination. I think it'll look extra cool and boho if I attach fringe at the hem (DIY tutorial anyone?). It'll be fun to wear with a sheer blouse and jeans as the weather eventually starts to cool down. I found a similar sweater that sold on eBay for $20.

3. Lable-less kimono - $2

This kimono may not have a label, but I'm pretty sure it's a higher quality one. My reasoning is the amount of fabric used, the weight of the fabric, and the beautiful frog closure. This will definitely complete any outfit. I also love that you can easily transition it into Texas fall because of the colors. 

4. Embroidered Boho Vest - $2

Okay, I'm bad and didn't check the labels to everything. I also don't feel like digging in my closet to figure out what labels are on things. Just know that it's nothing exciting or memorable. This knit vest however, is pretty memorable. It has beautiful multi-colored embroidery, which makes it super easy to match with anything. I think it'll look best with a dress, but we shall see what I end up wearing it with. 

Dresses:

1. Lace w/ Embroidery Dress - $2

This dress looks so ugly on the hanger!! My mom picked it out and I thought she was crazy. Once I tried it on, I fell in love! It's actually super pretty and flattering. I'm hoping to wear it very soon!

2. Mandarin Dress - $2

My favorite movie is In the Mood for Love, it's what sparked my love for vintage and in a sense fashion. It has beautiful cinematography and storyline as well. I bought the dress because it really reminded me of the movie. I have no idea if I'll ever wear it, but I suppose an occasion might pop up!

Tops:

1. HM Blouse -$2

I'm sure I'm going to wear this top with that denim a-line skirt that I wear all the time!

2. Angie Blouse -$2

I was so sad that this top isn't fully off the shoulder; but it's still has that vibe. I love the embroidery and sheer inlays. Perfect for the rest of summer, which seems like it'll never end. 

3. Kaftan Style Blouse -$2

I feel like this is a love/hate blouse. It might have been the jeans I tried it on with. I do really love the lace inlay on the back of the blouse! I think it'll look good with black jeans and black gladiator sandals.

4. Off the Shoulder Mustard Top - $2

Okay, this is my absolute favorite! I already wore it! I wore it to a Blink-182 after party and got many compliments. If you follow me on Instagram, you've already seen how I wore it. If you don't follow me on instagram, look on the side bar to see how I wore it. It's an outfit I will definitely be wearing into the fall. I'm obsessed with the color, the cut, and the bell sleeves. It's absolutely perfect!

What's your favorite piece that I bought? Which item would you like to see styled the most?

-A.