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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

4th of July in Austin Pt. 2

On to the 2nd outfit of my long weekend in Austin! This is the last picture I took because I totally forgot to take pictures of my other "nice outfits". The rest were also super casual, like tees and shorts.

This day was spent at brunch and wandering around downtown with my friends.

We ate at this cute little place called Olivia.  I ate the Olivia Benedict, which was pretty amazing!! I highly recommend you checking it out if you're in Austin.

As for what I wore, I kept it casual. I still kept the boho vibe with the cold cut shoulder blouse and the vintage blouse. Both finds from Family Thrift Outlet.  How cool is this statue of Willie Nelson, by the way? 

Sunglasses: Ray Bans - $215

Purse: Vintage via Family Thrift Outlet - $2

Top: Xhileration via Family Thrift Outlet - $2

Jeans: Rag & Bone via Intermix - Originally $225 --> $62

Sandals: Topshop via Trunk Club - $45

If you can't tell I enjoy mixing high end pieces with low end pieces, I think it keeps things interesting. Because I thrift so much, I'm able to splurge on certain items. Don't get me wrong thought, I'm all about finding a great deal!

-A. 

SaveSave

Everyday Look

Life has been busy with work and reading books. I feel like I haven't had the opportunity to wear something cute or stylish. I think it's good to be honest here; I thought I'd give you a look into a typical daily outfit.

I love wearing jeans and basic tees! Grey has slowly become my go to color. Forget wearing black! To be a bit more dressy, I like to add some casual heels.

Tee: Forever 21 -$6

Jeans: Rag & Bone - $52 (Orignially $198)

Heels: Charlotte Russe - $36

What's your go to look?

-A.

Black and White

Remember when I was obsessed with novelty prints and color?

I don't know what happened to that! I find myself being drawn to solid colors; mainly shades of black, grey, and white. I'm also learning that I love clean, straight lines. Don't get me wrong, I still love a touch of femininity thrown in the mix.

 Saturday, I spent the day exploring and eating with my boyfriend. I kept my outfit super simple. Black high waisted skinny jeans with a loose vertical striped blouse.

Blouse: Forever 21 - $25

Jeans: Cotton On - $25

Shoes: Charlotte Russe - $36

Purse: Ted Baker Maisie Tote - Gifted

One of the things I love about this blouse, is the ruffle on the second layer. It definitely keeps my outfit a bit more feminine.

Btw, how cool is the building I chose to use as my backdrop?

I couldn't find that much info, but the company still exists. From my understanding, they sell machinery for construction. I did find this neat article that talks about how there's a tunnel underneath the building connected to the Ambassador Hotel. It used to be a speakeasy during prohibition. I love finding buildings with a bit of history to them!

Here's what it looked like between between 1930 & 1945! 

Photo cred

-A.

A Minute in Mexico

This past weekend, I took a quick trip to Mexico. The circumstances weren't the most pleasant, but it was really nice to see the country of my ancestors once again. I hadn't been to Mexico in almost 10 years! It was nice to get a feel for the area as an adult versus when I was a teen. 

Don't think I got to go a big city near the ocean or the mountains.  I also didn't get to visit the exact town where my grandparents are originally from. I  instead visited a border town named Piedras Negras in the state of Coahuila. Right on the Texas border and an hour away from my grandparents home town. 

After crossing the border, we stopped to eat lunch. We ate at a Restaurant named La Herradura. The food was alright, nothing amazing, but way better than Tex-Mex. 

After lunch we stopped by the Mercado. It was fun seeing the beautiful colored dresses and folk art.

As for what I wore, I kept it super casual and comfortable. Since we drove, I opted for a sleeveless graphic tee and jeans. That way, I would get wrinkled clothes. The weather was a bit windy, so I'm glad I didn't wear a dress.

Hamsa Tee: Stolen from my mom's closet

Jeans: Frame Denim

Sandals: Zara (old)

Something that really stood out to me on this trip, was all the old decaying buildings. Something about them was really pretty.

  

This may have been a quick trip, but I'm glad I got to see a bit of pretty things. 

-A.

Thrift Trip - Winter Sale

The days are finally warming up and no one is really thinking about sweaters anymore. This really is the best time to stock up on fall and winter basics. It's also the time period where most thrift stores trying getting rid of their winter stock and gives you the best deals.

THRIFT TIP #1: Stock up on basic winter gear in the early spring.

I was super excited when Thrift Town announced that they were having their first 75% off sale ever.  It just so happened to be on winter clothing items only. From my understanding, it was all long sleeved tops, outerwear, and some shoes? I only cared for tops/sweaters, so that's all I'm certain for sure.

I only left with 4 items. I'm trying not to go as crazy as I used to and only buy things that I know I will for sure wear.

1. "Don't Ask Why" New York Sweater
Price at Thrift Town - $3.99
What I paid for (w/out sales tax)- $1
Normally Retails - $44-$50

Sure the kitschy graphic drew me in  to examine the sweater.  I had never heard of the brand before, but was sold at the fact that the sweater is 100% cotton and was made in Italy. Was really hoping this was a fancy label. Turns out American Eagle owns Don't Ask Why! It's a women's label that is all one size. American Eagle's take on trying to market different body shapes. For example this sweater might fit a petite girl oversized, but still looks cute with leggings and scarf outfit. On the other hand, it might fit a tall girl cropped, but could go for a rocker chic look with a leather moto jacket. So it's not about creating one look for one ideal body, but multiple looks depending on the body. I haven't tried the sweater on, but I'm sure it'll be just another loose sweater.

2. 90's Express Top

Price at Thrift Town: $7.99

What I paid for: $2

What it retails for: ???

I picked this top because of the style. The flow ruffle at the collar and the gathered ruffle sleeves are extremely "in". Great shirt for work. It goes with the romantic/70's fashion that is all the rage for spring and summer.

3 & 4. J.Jill Denim Tunics

Price at Thrift Town: $3.99 a piece

What I paid for: $1 a piece

What they retail for: $99 a piece

Everyone needs at least 1 denim top in their wardrobe. They're so versatile and you can wear them all year round. These will be great for those days I don't really feel like coming up with an outfit. I can just throw them over black jeans/leggings and brown ankle booties/sandals.

I know I saved at least $245 on just these items! It's kinda crazy when you start doing the math.

In case you missed the sale, it's not to late for find deals! Most thrift stores have pretty good sales every week.

Happy Thrifting!

-A.

Bullet Journaling - March Favorites

As promised, I'm sharing my favorite layouts for March.

I decided to participate in the "Rock Your Handwriting" challenge and "PTL Doodle" challenge. It was great to help me get back into the flow of creativity. I stopped participating in the challenges towards the end of the month because I really wanted to doodle/write what came to mind. I think I will only participate in the challenges if I'm having a creative block.

These are my favorites:

You can follow my bullet journalling adventure on Instagram: @anotherplannerjunkie

Hope you had a great month!

-A.

Spring Spring Spring

I was right! The weather has gotten warmer and there is no more need for winter clothes.  It makes me a bit sad since I didn't get to wear most of it. Here's to next fall/winter!

Remember how last summer I pretty much lived in that military style vest? Well it's back and I have a feeling it's going to be worn a whole lot again! Amazingly enough, you can still buy the vest at Francesca's! The only thing I dislike about it, is that the lining is super thin! My pockets already have giant holes > o <

This past Sunday I paired my green vest with a silk chiffon, halter neckline blouse that I bought for quite a deal at work. I also wore those Seven jeans that I'm obsessed with! So much softer than Levi's or my Frame's.

Anorak Vest - $48

Intermix Ines Top - (Org. $235) $48

7 for all Mankind Skinny Jeans - ($198) Handme down/gifted

Booties - Soda via Lulu's - $35

The photos were taken post brunch in Deep Ellum. It's changed so much in the last past few months! I hope the change is for the better!

What are your current go to garments?

-A.

Last Winter Days

This has been the mildest winter ever! I think I've only worn a coat twice at most. I was pretty happy with the cool weather the rain brought yesterday. I figured that this could be my last chance to wear a wintery outfit, so I took advantage. I also really hate dressing when the seasons are shifting. It's either to hot/cold or seasonally inappropriate to wear. 

I wore one of my favorite turtle neck sweaters that I found at the thrift store on National Thrift Store Day. You can see that post here! I threw it on with my current favorite jeans and a messy bun.

Sweater - Thrifted $3

Jeans - 7 for all Mankind  ($198) via handme down/gifted 

Booties - Soda via Lulu's $ 35

Total Outfit Cost - $38

Meh! What do you think about winter to spring transitional outfits?

-A.

Feeling Zen

I've strayed so far away from dressing vintage, but I still love finding deals at the thrift store! I've become obsessed with denim and finding different ways to wear them. I think it's a bit more complex than just wearing vintage dresses.  I've sold quite the majority of my vintage clothing so I can have more closet space for "new" thrifted clothes.  I'm not quite sure where my style is going, but I'm having fun trying to figure it out.

I wore this outfit the other day for dinner and thrifting.  I had stumbled across this cool Buddha piece a few weeks ago.  I requested to document my outfit with it.  I love finding hidden art in my city; especially when you aren't looking.

            

Outfit Details:

White Button up Blouse - Forever 21 ($13)

Black Vest - Banana Republic ($32)

Jeans - 7 For All Mankind ($0; Hand-me down from co-worker)

Suede Boots - Dolce Vita via Marshall's ($70)

I hadn't been thrifting in months, so I was super excited to see what I could find. I spent awhile looking, but didn't find anything.  I was ready to walk out the door when I spotted a sweater I liked. It turns out it was Madewell and only $4.99!!  If you go to the Madewell store, they usually run about $80.  Finding that sweater made me want to look through the other sweaters. To my surprise, I found a Northface zip up Polartec sweater for $3.99!! It looks just like new! They usually run around $160 I believe. Talk about a steal! The sweaters are perfect for my upcoming Alaska trip.  I'm ready to go back to a thrift store and see what else I can find before all the winter clothes disappears. 

-A.