trends

Thrifting for Trends: Spring/Summer 2013 Edition

by Sally on February 28, 2013 · 6 comments

thrifting for trends spring 2013

Yeah. Still feels a lot like winter around these parts. But if you’ve walked into a mall or clicked onto a clothing vendor website recently, you may have noticed that it’s practically Labor Day in Retail Land. And besides, if you’re gonna shop for a season, better to do so in advance, am I right? OK, enough caveats.

It’s time, once again, to examine the hot “new” trends for the season, and remind ourselves that fashion recycles EVERYTHING! Here are just a few of the garments, colors, and styles that are trending for spring and summer that you can easily track down at your local thrift and consignment shops:

Orange / Emerald Green

Orange is a tricky color for many complexions, but a great way to inject some energy into your outfits. This season, red-heavy “flame” oranges are the most popular, but lighter, brighter shades can work just as well. If this shade makes you look poorly, opt for pants, a skirt, shoes, or a handbag. Emerald green is easier to wear for many skin tones, and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of other colors. As is the case with all color trends, these ones will be among the easiest to thrift!

Bermuda Shorts

After what seems like decades of micro mini shorts, I’m tickled to hear that longer lengths will be trending in the coming season. Again, this trend will feel tough to wear for some women. For some tips on making the length and style work, see these posts on selecting stylish shorts, creative ways to wear shorts, and how shoes and shorts interact. And check the thrift racks which have always been a great source for shorts of all lengths.

Stripes

As a confirmed lover of stripes, I am beyond caring if they’re on-trend or not. And any visit to a thrift store will show you that stripes have been popular for ages and can be nabbed for pennies. Stripes feel off-putting to some, but there are work-arounds. Try a striped skirt or scarf if a dress or tee doesn’t feel right. And, of course, remember no one gets to tell you what you can and can’t wear. If you love stripes, wear ‘em. Period.

Leather

Yeah, this one is a bit odd. I mean, sure, leather shoes for spring and summer, but leather skirts? Again, I adore leather, so I’ll likely roll with this one. Most of the leather clothing I’ve seen in thrift stores is black, which can be balanced with white, patterns, and cool brights for warm weather. Black leather pencil skirts, black leather pants, and leather jackets in a variety of hues are generally available in most secondhand and consignment shops. Some colorful pieces turn up occasionally, so try your luck!

Sheers

Yet ANOTHER tricky trend! Especially if you work in a traditional office environment. But if you’re keen to try a few sheer fabrics for weekend or evening looks, or can find creative ways to layer them over opaques for work, do check the thrift racks. Tricky trends are often the easiest to thrift because generations before you found them tricky, too, gave up, and donated. Look for blouses especially in sheers and sheer patterns.

What trendy items will YOU thrift for this season?

Images courtesy Style.com (Victoria Beckham, Marc Jacobs, Rag & Bone)

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Thrifting for Trends: Fall/Winter 2012 Edition

by Sally on September 26, 2012 · 19 comments

I know, I know, it’s still feels like summer in many places. For now. But if you’ve walked into a mall or clicked onto a clothing vendor website recently, you may have noticed that it’s practically Christmas in Retail Land. And besides, if you’re gonna shop for a season, better to do so in advance, am I right? OK, enough caveats.

It’s time, once again, to examine the hot “new” trends for the season, and remind ourselves that fashion recycles EVERYTHING! Here are just a few of the garments, colors, and styles that are trending for fall and winter that you can easily track down at your local thrift and consignment shops:

Bordeaux / Maroon / Burgundy

You’re gonna have to fight me for any thriftable items in this color family. I’ve got a few pieces in my wardrobe, and they get near-constant wear during the cold months. Dark reds are incredibly versatile and work beautifully with neutrals, brighter reds and oranges, navy, pinks, magenta, hunter green … I could go on. As is the case with all color trends, this one will be among the easiest to thrift!

Military

Eeesh. When is military NOT trending? Still, if you’re still searching for that perfect pair of slouchy cargos or ideal military jacket, hit up the charity shops this season. My own military blazer is one of my thrifted staples, and gets year-round wear.

Southwestern/Western

This one may vary a bit by region, but around here everything from snap-front shirts to cowgirl boots can be found at thrift stores. Western-themed items have been trendy for many years, so if regular thrift stores fail you consider hip vintage shops. Prices might be higher than thrift, but they’ll likely be lower than brand new items. AND many vintage pieces were made in a time before fast fashion existed, so they’ll be durable. Look for belts, coats, boots, and shirts with Southwestern accents.

Winter White

From what I’m reading and seeing, this trend could just be “white.” Winter white is an off-white, but designers showed everything from bright white to ivory to cream on the FW12 runways and retailers are following suit. White tops are generally considered to be game in all seasons, but now white blazers, pants, skirts, dresses, and shoes are being shoved beyond the traditional Labor Day cutoff. Again, color trends? Ever so thriftable. Thrift stores are generally lousy with white items – especially non-tops – and minor discoloration can easily be bleached into perfection.

Leather

Most of the leather clothing I’ve seen in thrift stores is black, which is perfectly aligned with the dark, modern looks that hit the runways. Black leather pencil skirts, black leather pants, and leather jackets in a variety of hues are generally available in most secondhand and consignment shops. If you’re jonesing for some leather for fall and winter, hit a few thrift shops first!

Sheath dresses

Sheath dresses are the main dress style available in MY local thrift haunts. Many of them are 10+ years old, but sheaths are a classic style that hasn’t mutated all that much over the years, so a 13-year-old dress will look nearly as current as a present-day dress. Especially if accessorized in with modern pieces. Before you plunk down for a brand new sheath, check the racks at a nearby charity shop.

What trendy items will YOU thrift for this season?

Images courtesy Style.com (Calvin Klein, Chloe, Burberry Prorsum)

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This Week I Love …

by Sally on September 12, 2012 · 29 comments

… burgundy. Wine. Maroon. Bordeaux. The family of rich, dark reds that has proven itself to be a remarkably versatile group of colors. This thrifted sweater got worn almost once per week last winter, and those tights got a real run for their money, too. I’m on the prowl for more burgundy-colored items these days, knowing that this color is both super trendy for the season and incredibly useful within my own wardrobe. Here are a few that have tickled my fancy:

J.Crew Pleated Crepe Skirt – $79.99

Oh, there are burgundy pencil skirts aplenty, but this is one of the few full/pleated versions I’ve found. At 19″ long it might be a bit short, but such a marvelously swingy style. (This Oasis Lantern Skirt is another fun option, but also looks short. Where have all the knee-length skirts gone?!?)

Patagonia Maha Smooth Flat – $109.95

I love that this flat has sleek, sporty details but is still classic enough to work with dresses, skirts, and business casual ensembles. And the footbed and insole are made from 20% recycled materials. Stylish and environmentally conscious!

Express Long-sleeved Essential Shirt – $49.90
(Buy one, get one 50% off)

Express button-fronts are probably my favorites. They are slim-fitting with just enough stretch, long enough to wear with pants but easy to tuck into skirts. (Not designed for busty women, however – Carissa Rose has a burgundy chevron shirt this season, though.) I bought this very shirt with a coupon code last week, though it’s back to full price now. The leopard print cuffs are easy enough to conceal if they don’t float your boat.

Hobo International Rockler Cross Body – $267.95

This sizable leather crossbody is as utilitarian as it is chic. There are scads of burgundy bags around these days, but many of them strike me as overly embellished. This simple, classic design will endure when flashier versions seem dated. Also I adore my Hobo bags for their quality and construction. Great brand.

Timberland Rudston Pull-On Boot – $100 – $220.00

These mid-calf boots are the perfect shade of rich burgundy. They’d look so fabulous pulled on over skinny jeans or paired with heathered tights and a cozy sweater dress. (Also shaft is 13″ from arch … great if you’re looking for a shorter boot to flatter your leg line!)

Mossimo Elbow Sleeve Ponte Dress – $29.99

I nabbed this dress for myself a few weeks back, and though I’m yet to wear it, I’m smitten. The waist sits a bit lower on my torso than I’d prefer, but I’ll probably belt it most of the time anyway. It’s a nice, thick ponte knit and I adore the deep pockets.

Hinge Mallory Pump – $59.90

Suede can be tricky to keep clean and dry, but it can’t be beat for delivering rich, saturated colors. This pump is so adorable with its top-stitched fold-over detail and chunky stacked heel. Description says that’s 3″, but it looks totally walkable to me.

Wolfmark Silk/Wool Pashmina – $39.99

If all you’re craving is a pop of dark red, how about a cozy pashmina? There are loads of infinity scarves out there in various shades of burgundy, but I find traditional scarves to be more versatile. Tie this one using the pretzel knot!

Do you wear burgundy, wine, maroon, or bordeaux? If you’re a stickler for detail, is there a shade in there that you love specifically? Why? What items do you gravitate toward in this family of dark reds?

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Reader Request: Modernizing Bootcut Jeans

by Sally on July 12, 2012 · 29 comments

Anne had this great request:

So, I’ve tried the skinny jeans – they’re not all that great on me. Boyfriend jeans make me look kind of stumpy. Boot legs jeans are really the best fit for me but they’ve been around for quite a while. How do you make them look fresh?

As far as I can tell, the last time I personally wore bootcut jeans was in April of 2011:

But then, I am not much for jeans. I do denim bottoms but they’re frequently stand-ins for leggings and therefore skin-tight and paired with tunics. I firmly believe that bootcuts are a classic style, great on many figures, and well worth wearing despite skinnies being trendier. But I’m going to have to look elsewhere for some contemporary bootcut inspiration.

Before we dig into the photos and tips, though, a quick note about the style itself. Bootcut jeans have been recommended by stylists since the dawn of styling, and with good reason. They make most women appear tall and/or long-legged, and the slight flare at the hem balances figure volume. Bootcuts are not to be confused with flares, which have a much larger opening at the hem and read a bit more like bell-bottoms. Especially now, after years of refinement, bootcuts are relatively slim in the leg and feature a minimally noticeable flare at the ankle.

In my opinion, unadorned, dark-wash jeans of ANY style are always a good bet, and that goes for bootcuts, too. Dark washes are classic, clean, and much easier to dress up or down than destroyed, light, or heavily detailed washes. For more info on washes, fit, and a few recommendations see my abbreviated guide to denim. (Old, but still relevant.)

Now, let’s dig into Anne’s question. How exactly can you modernize a pair of bootcut jeans?

Go fancy

Maegan, … Love Maegan

Jeans are the classic go-to for casual and weekend wear. Doing your bootcuts with a sweatshirt and sneaks won’t do anything for them (or you) in the way of modernization, since that combination of pieces is expected and common. Choosing structured, ladylike, or fancy garments and accessories will create fun juxtaposition and also update your overall look. Sleek blazers, long strands of pearls, brooches, structured handbags, stacks of bracelets, killer heels, on-trend ballet flats, and diaphanous blouses all provide a bit of fanciness to balance the naturally casual vibe of the jeans. (For more jeans-related fabulousness, check out Love Maegan’s 30 Days 30 Ways: Jeans and a White Tee Challenge. And yes, it could be argued that Maegan is wearing flares here, but the outfit itself would work equally well with bootcuts.)

Go trendy

Alison, Wardrobe Oxygen

Now, see here! “Go trendy” doesn’t mean “force yourself into a peplum blouse and LIKE IT.” Trends encompass patterns, colors, and fabrics in addition to cuts, lengths, and garment types. Since bootcut jeans are a classic piece but can sometimes feel a bit dated in this world of skinnies, pairing them with tops, accessories, and shoes that seem very of-the-moment will create balance. Tangerine orange and cobalt blue are extremely trendy now, as are graphic florals and polka dots. Statement necklaces are still popular, as are scarves of just about every kind. Don’t pick a trend that clashes with your personal style. Seek something that appeals to your eye and your aesthetic sense, but still aligns with the season’s hot items.

Here, Alison has boldly chosen to do a poncho with her bootcuts. I say, “boldly” because if the poncho were crafted from brown and orange acrylic yarn and the jeans were pale, stonewashed flares she’d have given off a very Woodstock vibe. But the poncho is chic and updated, classic black and perfectly on-trend. Her bootcut jeans are a dark wash, and create a fabulous balance against the drape of the top.  (Also be sure to check out Alison’s response to reader question about bootcut jeans back in 2007!)

Go funky

Lisa, Respect the Shoes

Trendy and funky can have a lot of overlap, and Lisa’s sequined pullover could fall into either category. But the idea here is to steer clear of the plain, the expected, the normal, and reach for items with flair and interest. If it works for your figure, try a tunic-length top, or assemble some interesting layers that fall at different spot along your torso. Opt for outrageous platform shoes, a conversation-starting necklace, or a highly embellished blouse. Again, when we think bootcut jeans we think “casual weekend staple.” Pairing them with personality-laden tops and accessories will help update your look.

Are you a fan of bootcut jeans? How do YOU keep them looking fresh and modern when much of the world is wearing skinnies? Please, share your tips and recommendations!

Top image courtesy Gap

**Disclosure: Actions you take from the hyperlinks within this blog post may yield commissions for alreadypretty.com. See Already Pretty’s disclosure statement for more details.

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Color Blocking Shortcuts

by Sally on July 10, 2012 · 18 comments

Oh, color blocking. You are a concept that has been floating around the fashion world for several years now, making many of us scratch our heads in confusion. You sound so simple! I mean, isn’t color blocking just wearing multiple swaths of solid color? Can’t I throw on a cobalt top and red pants and say I’ve color blocked?

Well, yes. But it helps to use a few shortcuts to make such outfits feel more finished. Sometimes a pink tank top and an orange skirt may look “mismatched” instead of “color blocked.” Here are a few shortcuts to successful color blocking:

If you’re feeling shy, try an analogous pairing

Color blocking needn’t be all about bright, blaring, borderline-clashing hues. Analogous pairings are comprised of colors that neighbor each other on the color wheel – emerald and cobalt, scarlet and orange, purple and navy. Colors that are different from each other but still have some common ground can pair beautifully because they tend to make for relatively low contrast outfits. Analogous combinations are especially helpful if you’re blocking an outfit of separates – a top with pants or a skirt – and don’t want to draw loads of attention to where those separates meet. (In this case, your waist!) Lower contrast means less of an obvious break.

If you’re feeling bold, pick complementary colors

As this excellent post explains, complementary colors sit opposite each other on the color wheel. This means they are bold and a bit challenging when worn together, but they tend to look intentional and chic when done well. When in doubt, go for dusty, dark, or subdued versions. In other words, if bright yellow and bold purple scare you, try violet and mustard instead. Sometimes analogous pairings can flop because colors seem too close to each other and clash strangely. Complementary options are definitely more daring, but any clashing will likely seem like an active choice.

Break at your favorite spots

As I mentioned above, the places where color blocked garments meet generally create high contrast and draw the eye. You can use this to your advantage, and force breaks at your favorite spots. In the outfit above, I’ve paired a knotted button-front shirt with a high-waisted dress. The shirt ends at the narrowest point on my torso, so the observing eye rests there. Consider lengths and hems when color blocking, and attempt to create contrast where you’d like attention to be paid.

If your outfit feels unfinished, add a bridging piece

I lean heavily on bridging pieces when I color block. In fact, I can’t quite imagine doing a sweater, skirt, and shoes in three different shades WITHOUT adding an accessory to tie it all together. In many cases, bridging pieces will include multiple colors from a blocked outfit within a pattern. Scarves and necklaces are my favorites, though belts and shoes can work, too. (Shoes up top!) Pattern isn’t required, though, and neutral or metallic bridging pieces are great options, too. Most outfits feel more finished with the addition of accessories, and color blocked outfits are no exception. Pick a piece that will link your chosen palette.

Leave it to the pros

There are also loads of pre-color-blocked garments on the market right now. Dresses with three broad, vertical panels of color, sweaters that are half yellow, half blue. If the mere thought of consulting a color wheel makes you break out in hives but you’re anxious to try this trend, consider starting with a fully designed, color blocked item.

Do you color block? Are you more inclined to do complementary or analogous pairings? What are your favorite bridging pieces? Or are you passing on this dressing trend?

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Already Prettypoll: Never Say Never

by Sally on April 18, 2012 · 60 comments

Current trends that I just don’t get:

  • Lucite-heel shoes
  • Drop waists
  • Sandal-boot hybrids
  • Pastel overload

Past trends that I swore I’d never wear and now do:

  • Skinny jeans
  • Animal prints
  • Drop-crotch pants
  • Neon

It never ceases to amaze me. A garment, style, or trend comes on the scene and I absolutely LAUGH at its preposterousness.  And after enough relentless exposure, my eye becomes accustomed to it. And after that, eventually, I come around and actually want to wear it myself. I may hate sandal-boots now, but I know better than to say, “Never.”

What trend or item did you swear you’d never, ever in a million years wear … but then find yourself buying and sporting later on?

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Thrifting for Trends: Spring/Summer 2012 Edition

by Sally on April 6, 2012 · 7 comments

It’s time, once again, to examine the hot “new” trends for the season, and remind ourselves that fashion recycles EVERYTHING! Here are just a few of the garments, colors, and styles that are trending for spring and summer that you can easily track down at your local thrift and consignment shops:

20s glam

OK, this is likely the most challenging of the group. With the upcoming release of Leo DiCaprio’s version of “The Great Gatsby,” designers were all over fringed flapper dresses and embellished gowns. Thriftable pieces that will capture this trend include drop waist dresses, mid-calf skirts, skullcap style hats (especially with flowers and embellishments), white/tennis-reminiscent items, and silky blouses.

Pastels

As always, color-centric trends are the easiest to thrift. Do take a peek at a few contemporary photos before heading out to shop, as this particular batch of pastels is a bit more deep/saturated than some. But you’ll find all the shades from a bag of Jordan almonds at virtually every used clothing store in the land.

Graphic florals

Ditsy florals are classic, but this trend calls for a more abstract iteration. Or if not abstract, bold, big, and eye-catching. And believe me, such prints abound at thrift stores. Keep your eyes peeled for bright and primary colors, large prints, and anything that looks a bit graphic-designy.

Printed pants

This one comes with a warning: I prowled my local thrift haunts in search of printed pants for more than a year, and eventually bought these instead. But floral, paisley, and other fun printed pants abounded … they just weren’t available in styles I loved. If you find a pair that works but they’re not quite right, consider altering them or having them tailored. In this iteration of the trend, printed pants should either feature exaggerated wide legs or very slim ones. (See last night’s sale picks for non-thrift options.)

Orange

What could be easier! Don’t let anyone tell you that you need to run out and purchase the perfect tangerine frock. Orange is orange, and even neon versions are hot right now. Cruise the aisles looking for cuts and fabrics that suit your taste, and nab yourself some bold, orange items.

Will you thrift for trends this season? Which ones are you excited to try?

Images via style.com

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Why Trends Are Your Friends

by Sally on June 9, 2011 · 50 comments

Whenever I start nattering on about the latest trends, there are always a few folks who say, “Eh, I don’t really follow trends.” And I can respect that. Some women prefer to avoid trends because they want to cultivate a unique personal style. Some women prefer to dress in a timeless, classic fashion. Some women would prefer to circumvent the whole “mutton dressed as lamb” thing. All logical, reasonable explanations for eschewing trends.

BUT! (You knew there was gonna be a “but,” didn’t you? Because YOU read the post title.) I believe that even trend-eschewers, trend-avoiders, and avid trend-haters should consider remaining aware of and participating in trends. At least on a limited-investment, low-impact level. And here’s why:

Trends are subject to personal interpretation

This season’s trends include color blocking, 70s influence, long hemlines, minimalism, and bold prints. There are as many ways to interpret these trends as there are women in the world! Each trend in that list encompasses a whole universe of garments, accessories, colors, sizes, cuts, fabrics, and styles. And I’d bet my bottom dollar that every last one of you lovely readers could put your own unique spin on each of those broadly-defined trends.

Trends in dressing are often conflated with trendy garments. If you don’t like drop-crotch pants, fedoras, and flared jeans, then skip ‘em. The broader trends, however – the trends that describe varied styles of dressing and types of garments – are worth investigating and exploring. Why?

Awareness and implementation of trends keeps your look current

Did you know that classic pieces age? Think about a basic black blazer, an item that 60 bajillion style experts have blessed as a “must-have.” Say you invested in a gorgeous Donna Karan blazer in 1983. Would you still wear that blazer today, with its long lines, single button, and enormous shoulder-pads? Shapes change, construction changes, fabric technology changes. And keeping abreast of those changes will help you make sure that your style and wardrobe don’t appear unintentionally dated.

But limiting your trend interactions to basics like fabric and cut also limits your ability to evolve your style. Playing with the season’s clothing, shoe, accessory, and styling trends is a fabulous way to explore new stylistic options for yourself. And even something as simple as embracing the favored color for the season, or springing for an inexpensive accessory can help keep your look current. Oh, and don’t go thinking that you can’t afford to keep up with the trends. After all …

Trends can be thrifted

Here, let me prove it:

Celebrities spend big bucks on designer versions of trends. The rest of us can do it on a budget. And an environmentally-friendly budget at that!

The big secret: Items that are trendy now are not actually NEW. They’re just “in favor.” And since they’ve been made, loved, and worn before, that means we can nearly always pick them up used. Superscore.

Trends keep you informed

Even if you still don’t give a flying rat’s ankle about exploring and interpreting trends on your own, I recommend cultivating awareness. Just knowing what the trends are may influence you in tiny, unforeseen ways. You may adjust how you style what you already own, you may become inspired to haul out a garment that’s been languishing unworn, you may feel uninterested at first but excited months later. And even if trend knowledge doesn’t impact your dressing practices, it’s not a bad idea to know what’s going on in the world of style so that you can react and comment.

Three resources for those of you in need of trend guidance

  • Style.com’s trend section: Vogue magazine’s website is the go-to spot for all things fashion, and their trend section is incredibly comprehensive.
  • Seasonal lookbooks: I have trouble hunting these down for the spring season, but they always turn up in fall. Vogue and Elle both assemble enormous book-like magazines of the best of the runways, and you can glean the trends for yourself just by looking at these pictorial summaries. They’re pricey – $40 to $50 – but I absolutely adore them. Ask at any bookstore with a newsstand.

Are you convinced? Will you make monitoring trends a part of your sartorial life, now that I’ve told you why it might be beneficial? Or do you still have doubts?

Image via Head 2 Heels.

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