We Have Moved!

This little blog has done a lot of growing and has grown up. It has moved to:

throughthealleyblog.com

Thank you for keeping up with me all these years and I hope to see you there!

-A.

throughthealleyblog.com

June 2017 Thrift Haul

I've been thrifting, but haven't been posting as much. I swear I'm going to get better at posting. I have a couple other hauls that I need to share!

Lately, my go to thrift store is Texas Thrift. It's enormous and is constantly being restocked. However, it's always PACKED!

I think this haul shows how obvious I want it to be cool outside.

Handbag:

1. Vintage 80's - $10

When I saw this purse, I immediately thought of this lion purse I thrifted from this haul. Like the other purse, I love the quirky detailing of the crocodiles. I love that it perfectly finds my wallet, keys, and sunglasses. The stitching is impeccable which makes the bag look expensive. There's no label and how I wish it did. I'll never know who makes this bag. I did find something kind of similar here.

Retails: $35 -$50

Tops:

1. Madewell - $3

This linen blouse is great for these super hot days; it also drapes really nicely.

Retails:$40-$50

2. Vintage 90's - $4

I was stunned to find this blouse, which is extremely similar to top no. 5 from this haul. I love the floral embroidery and it's a beautiful shade of navy.  

3. Flannel Button Up - $5

I know, it's crazy hot outside! But, I couldn't pass up this basic flannel. I know this will get worn A LOT.

4. Ralph Lauren Tunic - $5

This lightweight, creamy tunic is super easy to dress up or down. Another piece that I will get a lot of wear out of. 

Skort/Skirt

1. Vintage 60's Skort - $3

I don't remember if I've already talked about how hard it is to find true vintage these days on here. Well, it is! I can't even find 70's pieces anymore, I blame all those online sellers. I was extremely happy when I found this and the next piece! A plus because they fit like a glove. 

2. Vintage 60's Neiman Marcus Skirt - $3

Isn't it funny how this looks like the skort? I'm not crazy about the calf length, so I might hem it. Although I'm afraid it might loose it's A-line shape. 

Here's to next times haul being more summery!

-A. 

Family Thrift Outlet Haul #5

It had taken me several months before I had a free day to visit Family Thrift Oultet in Fort Worth! I always leave with a large bag of clothes for under $40. You really can't beat that! Everything is always $2 on Thursdays! I found a few gems including Milly and Armani Exchange. Here's what I found!

Handbags:

1. Faux Gucci?

I quickly grabbed this without inspecting it. It looks authentic excpet for the plac that says Gucci, is slightly crooked. There's a serial number and everthing though. What should I do with it?

Dresses:

1. Old Navy

This nautical inspired shift dress will be perfect for casual outings. 

2.  Mark and James by Badgley Mischka 

                   

The crepe material of this one shoulder dress is what caught my eye. I had no idea that Badgley Mischka had a cheaper line. I couldn't find much info on the brand, but you can find it on Rent the Runway! The couple of dresses they have retail between $345 and $660. It was definately a steal! I just need an occasion to wear it to. 

3. Milly

I was so excited to find this Milly dress! Milly is one of my favorite brands. A similar silk dress is right under $600!!! 

4. H & M 

           

  I'm sure I'll get plenty of wear out of this casual t-shirt dress.

5. 

            

This romper is brand new with the tags! Sadly, it has the price portion ripped out. 

Tops:

1. Forever 21

                                             

This frilly black tank is prefect for dressing up or down.

2. J.Crew

Just a casual tank for everyday wear.

3. River Island

I've never found anything from River Island, so I was pretty excited when I found this piece. I was  hoping it was a dress, but it ended up being a tunic. 

4. Rock & Republic

I like the idea of two layered tees and the fabrics are super soft!

5.  

I've seen graphic tees all over magazines, so I snatched this up!

6.  Armani Exchange 

 

This cold shoulder sweater is light enough to wear through the rest of spring (hopefully!) and easy to dress up.

7.  H&M

I fell in love with this vest! I can't wait for it to get chilly again. 

13 items for $26! Not bad at all. It was worth it for just the Milly dress alone.

-A. 

Plaid Plaid Plaid

Each year I've written at least one post about wearing plaid and how much I love it. Last year, I recieved this plaid Luisa Brini poncho as a gift. I've worn it several times throughout the cold days, but this is the first time I actually incorporated it into an outfit.

I paired it with a vintage Express sweater tunic that I found at Family Thrift Center in Arlington and chelsea style booties.

Poncho: Luisa Brini - Gifted

Sweater: Vintage Express via thrifted - $5

Jeans: Cotton On - $25

Booties: Gap - $35

I think I'll incorporate this poncho with more outfits instead of just wearing it with whatever, like I have been. 

-A.

Missing Alaska

It's been a little over a month since I got back from my trip to Alaska and I've finally decided to share my favorite highlights. 

Everyone has asked me, "Why Alaska?" One of my best friends moved up there a couple of years ago and I finally got the chance to visit her. The other question has been, "Why visit in October?" I wanted a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights and I did see them, TWICE!

These are the places that I absolutely loved! (In chronological order)

1.  Gulliver's Books - Fairbanks, AK

As a book lover, of course I had to check out this quiet little bookstore. Downstairs has new books and novelty gifts. While upstairs has a coffeeshop and used book section. I left with a poetry book about Alaska for a gift and a sticker for my laptop.

2. Chena Hot Springs Resort

This was the main HIGHLIGHT of my trip! We drove out to the resort where there was no cell phone reception or wifi (I actually had no reception the whole trip). It was out into what seemed like the middle of no where. It was a quiet place with a restaurant, cafe, ice museum, and of course the hot springs. It was also the place where I experienced the Northern Lights for the first time. 

Getting into 106 degree water while it was 8 degrees outside was quite an experience. You'd think you'd be freezing, but the temperature of the water balances it out. It also keeps you warm enough for you to go inside the locker room without feeling too cold. 

3.  Santa Claus House - North Pole, AK

This was such a fun stop! The North Pole is a real city and Santa Claus House is a large Christmas store! Actually, I think they're known for sending out letters from Santa. I have a tradition where I buy an ornament from every place I travel to and this was the perfect spot to buy mine.

4.  Eagle Summit 

I'm not really an outdoorsy person, but after this trip, I'm willing to be more outdoorsy.   I think Eagle Summit was what really made me appreciate nature even more. 

Eagle Summit was one of the most breathtaking places I've ever seen. I found it more beautiful than the handful of major cities in the States and Europe that I've been to. There was something really special about how quiet and vast it is. The fact that you're seeing mountains on mountains is really beautiful. I don't think it would have been this special if there hadn't been snow on the ground. 

I definitely plan on going back, but maybe during a summer. If you haven't been up there, I HIGHLY recommend making the trip.

-A. 

Mid November

I know I've been slacking here! I've been working on condensing my thoughts/recommendations on Fairbanks, so I can share them with you.

I've also been patiently waiting for the weather to cool down. It seems like Dallas can't make up it's mind if wants to stay warm or cool.

I've been sticking to super light sweaters and long sleeve cotton blouses.

Blouse: Dillard's - $40

Jeans: Rag & Bone via Intermix - $98

Flats: Forever 21 - $15

Handbag: Ted Baker Maisie Bag - Gifted

I really love this top because of the layered look and mixed textures. I'll be sad when it gets too chilly for me to wear it.

-A.

Happy November!

October was a super busy month for me! Lots of work and travel; it'll be nice to get back into the swing of blogging. I have plenty of stories and outfits to share with you guys!

After being in Alaska for a week, it's safe to say that I really missed Dallas. I missed the warm weather and vibrant city life.

A typical weekend for me calls for an outing to lunch or out strolling in Deep Ellum/Bishop Arts; very different from the small poplulated Fairbanks.

Photo Credit: Jannet Medellin Photography 

Cameo Necklace: handme down

Blouse: Ro & De via thrifted $2

Leggings: Cotton On $10 (SAME)

Flats: Gap $35 (SAME)

Tote: Ted Baker via gifted (SIMILAR)

It's still pretty hot, so I'm making my outfits look a bit more fall by wearing darker colors. The Ro & De blouse is that perfect oxblood color and lightweight enough to wear until it gets cold.  It's definately a great color to make black pop. The blouse came from this thrift haul.

I'm hoping temperatrues will cool down (but not Alaska cool) enough for me to wear lightweight long sleeve pieces. 

Can't wait to share my Alaskan stories with you!

-A. 

Another Day in Stripes

Solids, neutrals, and stripes have become my main go to picks. I don't crave color and novelty prints like I used to; funny how one's preferences change. Stripes are what make up the most of my closet, I'm thinking it might be time for change, but in the meantime I'll stick to my stripes.

I finally wore this pinstripe dress that I thrifted at Family Thrift Center Outlet from this haul. 

and here's how I wore it out! I paired it with a black double breasted blazer vest to balance out the pinstripes and added strappy heels to dress it up. 

Dress: Liz Claiborne - Family Thrift Center Outlet $2

Vest: Banana Republic (Org. $120) $45 (Same!)

Purse: Chanel? - Thrifted $1

Heels: Charlotte Russe - $29 (Same!)

What's your favorite print/pattern to wear?

-A.

Last Days of Summer

Fall is approaching, but the days seem to only get hotter. By the recent OOTD's I've shared, you can tell I live in jeans. (Weird right?) 

I had completely forgotten about this blouse that I purchased during winter. It's super lightweight and has pretty, detailed embroidery in gold thread. I wish I would have worn it sooner! 

Blouse: Christophe Sauvat via Intermix - $50 (Org. $198)

Jeans: Rag & Bone - $98 ($210)

Sandals - Mercanti Fiorentini via DSW - $30

Do you have any favorite summer tops? 

-A.

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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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.

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.