What I'm Thrifting for Fall.
Layers. That’s it, that’s the end of the post. What' I’m thrifting for fall? Layers.
I’m sort of kidding. Yes I am thrifting layers, that does basically sum it up, but I am happy to elaborate on it a bit. I think thrifting for fall is the best season to thrift for because naturally in colder months you’re putting more clothes on your body so you have more options, and also because I think you can be much more creative with your layering and what pieces are used for and how they’re put together.
Because, (for the 500th time) I’m a big layerer, here’ s what I’ve scooped up so far and what types of styles I’ll continue to be thrifting for fall:
Cardigans: Cardigan sweaters are timeless in their own right, but this season 90s style, fitted cardis are trending in a fun way, and I am all about wearing a more fitted, knit cardigan as a top for fall of 2019. I’m on the hunt for classic, crew neck styles with a button front to be tucked into my favorite mom jeans and midi skirts. Of course I’m also a big fan of some good menswear inspired dressing, so oversized cardigans are top on my list, always. Scooped both of these up at different trips to Goodwill both for under $5 a piece.
Mocknecks & Turtlenecks: I read somewhere recently that turtlenecks were taking a break this season, but trendy or not, I will always be a fan of a higher neck silhouette. I love layering with mockneck and turtleneck tops in different fabric weights and coincidentally found both of these ribbed styles at two different Goodwill’s for about $3.50 a piece. The short sleeve style is perfect for early fall layering when you’re not quite ready to be totally bundled!
Trousers: My mom jeans will never not be in regular rotation, but to give them a break a couple days a week, I’m on the hunt for trousers. Currently looking for high waisted straight leg pants in the tweed, plaid and tartan variety for some classic, preppy looks accompanied with trouser socks and patent leather loafers. Reminder tip for thrifting - when it comes to pants, ignore size when shopping vintage, know your measurements, or take time to try things on, the size is just a number and most vintage pieces run very very small.
Button Front Skirts & Dress: There is so much room to play with styling when it comes to button front dresses, one of my favorite tricks, unbuttoning completely and using as a vest or duster. I think when viewed as more than just a dress, opening your size restrictions they’ll be much easier to come across and you’ll have a lot more fun getting more wears out of them. And just because I’m so into more classic silhouettes and menswear styles I’m loving button front details in general so loving a good button up skirt as well. Found this polka dot midi skirt a couple weeks ago and can’t wait to style it with a turtleneck and leather jacket!
Apres Ski 80s Sweaters: Living in a mountain town, surrounded by lots of other, smaller, mountain towns - we’re very lucky to have thrift stores loaded with fantastic sweater options. Like really great, high quality, premium fabric sweaters. Like this beautiful, 100% alpaca beauty (on the left) I found at the Goodwill in Boone last month for $3.50. I didn’t even really know this was something I would be actively searching for but I’ve worn it at least three times in the past week, found it’s perfectly matching companion a few days ago and now I’m hooked. Hot Tub Time Machine vibes are what I seek, and I’m going to be spending the colder parts of the season pretending I’m holed up in my chalet by the fire.
Jackets & Coats: Blazers and outerwear are such a great item to thrift really anytime of the year. Even when I’m in a hurry at Goodwill I always quickly run through the blazer rack. There’s a lot of necessity in investing in a good winter coat depending on the climate where you are, but if you’re someone who likes to change things up or style your outerwear to match your full ensemble, then thrifting is a great place to find variety and not have to invest hundreds of dollars in different options. My most recent find, this vintage Etienne Aigner reversible trench coat, that for me was a splurge at the Salvation Army in Duluth, GA this past week that I spent a whopping $24.99 on. Normally at a thrift store I don’t spend that much on one item, but it’s brand new condition, and the fact that it’s basically two coats in one had me willing to spend a little more.
Clearly looking for printed pieces in all varieties - which leaves room in the fall budget for spending a little more on some neutral basics to pair back to. Have you been hitting your favorite thrift stores this season? What are you hoping to find for fall? Would love to hear all about your thrift store adventures or just have a look! Let me know below or tag me on your thrifting adventures on instagram, @kirby.wolf