The Art of Thrifting
A discerning eye elevates these thrifted pieces from old castaways to art world chic.
This editorial is an homage to the art of curation.
One of the things I’ve always admired about stylish women is their ability to make absolutely anything work for them. You know, like when you compliment a woman on an amazing bangle or scarf she’s wearing and she says something like “Oh, I found it in the trash at my uncle’s ranch.” Or when a friend wears a look that you could swear you saw in a write-up about Cushnie and she tells you that it’s actually from The Salvation Army where she also got her sofa and cute cocktail glasses last summer.
Every time I think of these women, it reminds me to close the Aritzia and Reformation tabs I have open and get creative, because more important than your wallet and proximity to a Nordstrom when building a wardrobe you love, is a keen eye. Every single garment in this feature was found in a thrift store where clothes fished out of rolling bins and are sold for $1.50/lb.
Please enjoy this love letter to the joy of the hunt and the art of personal style.
The Main Attraction
The delicate nature of this heirloom pendant, courtesy of artist Jill Schlichenmaer, paired with a crisp new turtleneck sweater helps highlight the real treasure of this thrifted look- the statement collar on this trench. All pieces in this look are second-hand save for the Uniqulo turtleneck.
make it work
The best way to incorporate thrifted and vintage pieces into your wardrobe is to go for the classic silhouettes in natural colors (taupes, greys, olives, etc.) and bring in some fun with something new and a bit trendier.
That isn’t to say that you can’t find (and shouldn’t look for) statement pieces when you’re on the hunt- by all means, buying novelty items second hand is actually the best thing you can do for your individuality and the planet.
But if you’re going for quality and longevity, pieces in neutral tones and solid materials will go a long way (they might even outlast you).
One-of-A-Kind For 1 Dollar
This skirt is an example of a benefit of shopping second-hand. The combination of the fullness of the cut, at that midi length with those dreamy pleats, in a 100% wool skirt is not something you can easily find in a shopping center today- let alone for under one hundred and fifty dollars.
This singular beauty was about three dollars. Now, just like mining for gold, thrifting isn’t always a guaranteed win, but when you do win, you find some really unique gems.
Credits:
Photography | Jason Fitzgerald
Hair & Make-Up |Heather Fitzgerald
Paintings | Jill Schlichenmaier
Styling & Set Design |Arianna Jones
A Touch of Whimsy
A scarf tied onto anything adds new life and a bit of depth to any part of your look. Tying on a scarf you’ve found second hand can elevate a simple ponytail (if you’ve got ponytail hair) or just add a hint of color to a favorite bag (brand spankin’ new or pre-loved).
Sustainable &
Pas Très Cher
Oh, and buying second hand is both easy on the wallet and kind to the planet. There are no downsides!