DIY OMBRE DIP DYE "WEDDING DRESS"

These are my old ballet shoes, from high school, that I just added studs to.

I came across this Marchesa dress years before I was engaged. It’s not a wedding dress, but I was so obsessed with the style. I adore Marchesa designs because of their light and airy materials, draping, and construction. Most of their evening gowns look like art pieces, since they’re heavily inspired by origami prints and shapes. 

Once I got engaged several years later, my mind didn’t budge. This still remained my main wedding dress inspiration, but I made many adjustments to mold it into exactly what I wanted. After brainstorming my vision, I began researching the process.

STEP I | READY-TO-WEAR OR CUSTOM DESIGN? | 1.5 YEARS AWAY

Trying to find the wedding dress I was envisioning was a fail, so I figured it would be easiest and cheapest to split it into a top and skirt. There was an Etsy shop that could do black ombre, but after they sent me a video of their spray painting method, I realized that I could DIY it at a significantly lower cost.

The first piece I bought was a white tulle skirt from a Ukrainian Etsy shop for $92.69. They have a wide variety of colors to choose from, and they custom make each one, based on the length and waist size that you want.

I then browsed for a white top similar to my inspirations, but had no luck, so that’s when I turned to custom designing.

STEP II | DESIGN SKETCH | 1 YEAR AWAY

I found a bridal shop, called Connie Tao Designs, that could custom make my top and dip dye my skirt, but communicating with them was extremely frustrating. Over the span of eight months, they didn’t design shit, aside from giving me this half-assed sketch that I had to repeatedly ask for. Can’t relate to all of their five-star reviews…

Then over the holidays, my aunt showed me her wedding album and told me that she designed her accessories, wedding dress, reception dress, and bridesmaid dresses all by herself. Unaware of the terrible experience I had with Connie, she asked if I needed help with anything, and that’s when everything magically started coming together.

STEP III | SOURCE FABRIC | 6 MONTHS AWAY

We went to JOANN to find fabric that matched my skirt. The closest ones we could find happened to be on sale for $38.66. I also got extra fabric, so that I could test the spray paint later on.

STEP IV | DESIGN TOP | | 6 MONTHS AWAY

My aunt took all of my measurements to create a pattern from scratch. She then used it to cut and sew scrap fabric first. After double checking that the sample fit on me, she proceeded with the actual wedding dress fabric from JOANN. It took her just one day to complete most of my top, which was such a relief after dealing with Connie. My aunt is an incredibly generous, hardworking, and talented person, and I’m so grateful that she put in so much time and effort to help me.

STEP V | FINAL FITTING | 2 MONTHS AWAY

Once the design was finalized, we realized that I needed lots of fashion tape to hold the top to my body. This wouldn’t be an issue if it was a regular wedding dress, but because I split it into two pieces, the backless top didn’t have fabric along the bottom to anchor it. I had to buy fashion tape for the first time, which was a life changer. If only I knew about this hack before…

STEP VI | TEST SPRAY PAINT | 2 MONTHS AWAY

My skirt had three layers of tulle, so I cut the same amount of swatches from our leftover fabric to test the spray paint first. I bought black and gray cans from Home Depot to try to create an ombre effect. Glidden was the only brand I saw that carried these specific colors, while also being suitable for fabric. The black was perfect, but the gray was really light, so I had to spray three separate layers.

STEP VII | SPRAY PAINT SKIRT | 2 MONTHS AWAY

I hung my skirt in my aunt’s backyard and started with spraying black along the bottom. Then I sprayed all of the gray color, until it ran out. I had to spray a second layer of black, since the gray slightly faded the first layer. This entire process took about two hours, and the paint dried almost immediately.

In the end, my customized “wedding dress” checked off every single one of my boxes, and then some…

+ significantly under budget

+ hid food baby

+ accentuated tattoos

+ minimal, but still made a statement

+ comfortable / breathable / moveable

+ easily used bathroom without assistance

+ easily / quickly did outfit change for wedding dance

Photography | Katie Clare Photography

xx

Dana

PRETTY SAVAGE

This weekend, my friends and I are going to watch BLACKPINK’s virtual concert. I was initially going to dress in black and pink, but my friends suggested that we should wear a BLACKPINK inspired look, instead.

The K-Pop industry’s budget is insane, so the girls have the most striking costume changes for all of their performances. My personal favorites were their glittery stage outfits at Coachella and their Tomb Raider outfits in “Kill This Love.” I also love seeing them dress in their sponsored designer labels, especially Jennie. She always looks so posh and trendy in Chanel. Lisa is the other member who stands out with her badass streetwear, oversized fur jackets and ever-changing hair color.

I rummaged through my closet, pulling out anything flashy, edgy and K-Pop-ish, and this monochrome look is what I came up with. The miniskirt has a perky girly silhouette, so I balanced it out with a modern asymmetrical crop top.

To accessorize, I put on a choker, which seems to be just as popular in Korea, as it is in the US. If I could spice up this outfit, even more, I would wear a harness or garter. I’m really into all of the unique body straps that Asian pop stars wear, but I haven’t found any that I like yet. This belt is the only accessory I have that resembles that style, so this will do for now. I actually bought it from YesStyle, which is an online Asian store that sells Korean and Japanese-inspired clothes and accessories. For shoes, a pair of booties are always reliable for both comfort and height.

The weather has gotten significantly colder this week, so for my final touch, I layered on my shearling jacket. It’s the perfect excuse to channel my inner Lisa.

Overall, I’d say this look is 10% “pretty” and 90% “savage.” How you like that???

+ BLACKPINK Light Stick | BLACKPINK

+ Jacket | UNIF (Poshmark)

+ Crop Top | boohoo

+ Skirt | Soprano (Goodwill)

+ Belt | YesStyle

+ Booties | Steve Madden (Poshmark)

+ Choker | Forever 21

+ Lipstick | MAC’s Cyber

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

STRUT

I’m not kidding when I say 80% of my closet is thrifted. Out of these nine shoes, seven of them were secondhand. If I asked you which ones they were, would you be able to guess? I’ve seen everything, from Nike Air Forces at Goodwill to Christian Louboutins at Salvation Army, so nothing is out of reach. Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned with bargaining for shoes over the years.

1. DR. MARTENS BOOTS

   Wasteland

   $18

   BUY / SELL / TRADE ON HAIGHT-ASHBURY

   Before the age of Poshmark, I would frequently bus or ferry to San Francisco, in hopes of selling or trading clothes that I no longer wanted. I would lug several heavy ass bags, with me, and would sometimes only sell 5 things. Even with 5 things, you can accumulate a lot of cash or store credit if they are trendy or name brand items. Haight-Ashbury has A LOT of thrift stores, but I always had the same sequence of going from Wasteland to Buffalo Exchange to Crossroads Trading. The reason why I like Wasteland, so much, is because they only offer cash, and they always select lifestyle and high-end brands. Since they have expensive taste, they give you more money’s worth for your clothes. I always shop around before collecting my cash and, on this day, I ended up using it all on these Docs. I forget exactly how much I earned or how much the boots cost, but I only paid around $18. I do remember being shook by how low the price tag was, so it was a major steal regardless.

2. STEVE MADDEN BOOTIES

   Poshmark

   $22

   THRIFTING ON POSHMARK

   Whenever I want something with a unique detail, I always browse through Poshmark first. To show you how refined the app can be, I will walk you through exactly how I narrowed down my search. For these booties, I started by entering the distinct keywords, “clear heels.” Then I chose the “Women’s” category and filtered down the subcategories from “Shoes” to “Ankle Boots & Booties.” I selected my shoe sizes and the color black, and as usual, I sorted the price from low to high. As I was scrolling, I tried to “like” several listings, so that I could weigh my options at the end. This makes it so much easier to compare the varying styles and prices.

3. ALDO BOOTIES

   ALDO

   $54

   THE NEW NEW | IN-STORE SHOPPING

   These were the knock-offs I settled for because I couldn’t bring myself to buy the Jeffrey Campbell booties I actually wanted. I think the Campbells were selling for $200-300, and when they sold out, I instantly regretted not taking my chances. Over a year later, I saw these similar booties at ALDO. The belt buckles reminded me of the Campbells, and I also loved the gold plating on the heels. I debated on buying them, at first, since I thought the gold studs would be overkill. The other part that turned me off was the price. It’s silly to think that I considered buying premium booties, but still find $54 questionable. I had never shopped at ALDO before, so I was skeptical with their quality. 

   Once I purchased the shoes, I never second-guessed anything again. They are one of the most comfortable pairs I own, and I could walk and dance in them for days. They also are, in fact, extremely well-made. After seven years, they haven’t lost a single stud or endured any serious damages.

4. CHINESE LAUNDRY BOOTIES

   Poshmark

   $0

   TRADING ON POSHMARK

   Another great thing about Postmark is that you can trade clothes with other sellers. All you have to do is pay for shipping. I scored real big with this transaction and traded my old Birkenstocks for these booties, a makeup brush, and two sweaters. There are many sellers who don’t do trades, but it never hurts to ask if you see a listing that you’re interested in. Whenever I receive a “like” from someone on my listings, I always browse their closet to see if there’s anything I’d like to trade them for.

5. CHARLES DAVID HEELS

   Poshmark

   $14.95

   PRICE DROPS ON POSHMARK

   Whenever you “like” a listing on Poshmark, you will always be notified when the seller drops their price. I kept seeing these heels reduce over time, so once they reached $20, I bought them. I also used credit from my own sales, so they ended up being cheaper than I expected.

6. MOSSIMO FLATS

   Goodwill

   $8.99

   PRICE CATEGORIES AT GOODWILL

   Most of the Goodwills I shop at, now have a set price for all of their shoes. Spending under $10 on shoes is a bargain, as is, but it’s even better when they are still brand new. There have been many times where I’ve snagged brand new shoes, at Goodwill, and this happened to be one of those special days.

7. MRKT HEELS

   hand-me-down

   $0

   YOUR FRIEND’S / FAMILY’S CLOSET

   In college, I walked into my dorm room, one day, spotting these heels in the trash can. My roommate was tossing them, so I immediately claimed them as my own. I have inherited so many hand-me-downs, from friends and family, throughout my life. Whenever my friends are cleaning out their closets, I always ask for first dibs, before everything is donated. I had the best of luck in college, since all of my friends had the urge to downsize before moving back home.

8. & OTHER STORIES SANDALS

   & Other Stories

   $57.60

   THE NEW NEW | ONLINE SHOPPING

   I had been eyeing these sandals, for months, but again, I kept contemplating on how expensive they were. Several months later, I finally made the purchase, but the shoes were slightly too big. The beautiful thing about lifestyle brands is that they tend to have free shipping and returns. Since their price points are much higher, they can afford to do this. For some weird reason, & Other Stories doesn’t have an exchange policy for online orders, so I had to ship back the shoes and buy a new pair. As I was waiting for my refund to transfer, I noticed that the price had slashed from $129 to $64. This was all a matter of perfect timing. To top it all off, I used an additional 10% discount code. Always take advantage of those email subscriptions. You can simply unsubscribe after you access the deal.

9.  UNISA MULES

   Goodwill

   $7

   “COLOR OF THE WEEK” AT GOODWILL

   I found these mules in the more expensive shoe section of Goodwill. This particular store had a separate assortment that was curated by style and brand. I think it was no more than $15, but in terms of Goodwill, I consider anything over $10 steep. My only exceptions are furniture, luxury jewelry, or collective items. This location was also in an affluent neighborhood, so it was one bougie ass Goodwill. The price made me hesitate, but I couldn’t resist how cute and comfy the shoes were. Besides, I didn’t own anything else like them. When the cashier rung them up, I was pleased to hear that they were 50% off. Goodwill always color-coats their price tags, and, every week, they choose a different color to discount. These shoes had a white sticker, instead of a colored tag, so I just assumed they were excluded from Color of the Week. Now I know better.

xx

Dana

SPARKLE + SHINE

It doesn’t feel like holiday season without some glitter. Black and gold are my favorite colors, so I naturally stuck with this color palette. The highlight of this look is definitely the pleated metallic skirt that I got from Goodwill. Since the skirt is high-waisted, I paired it with my Are You Am I crop top.

Unlike the skirt, which was only $6.99, the top was a major splurge. It’s actually one of the most expensive items I own. Even with a discount, it cost about $116. You probably think I’m insane for spending this much on a top, let alone a cropped one, but I had been eying it months before I bought it. I really appreciate its cut, construction, and hand-feel. The knock-offs I saw were missing that crisp square neckline and low-cut back. This top was made from a soft and cozy fiber, called modal, and the long sleeves make it more winter-friendly.

To reflect the sheen of my skirt, I kept my jewelry gold-toned. Ever since I followed Jenn Im on YouTube, she ingrained the idea in me that your metals should always match. For instance, if you choose gold earrings, then you should stay consistent with your necklace, bracelet and ring. After she demonstrated this, I couldn’t unsee it. Now I’m even anal about my purse straps. Aside from having a gold chain, I also thought that my faux fur pouch was fitting for the holidays. It just adds an oomph of class.

For extra warmth, I layered on my mom’s oversized peacoat. I wish I knew the story behind it because it has a Hong Kong address and telephone number printed on the label. Somehow, she thrifted this foreign-made coat that was tailored to petite women, like us. Not only was it well-made, but it still looks brand new. Everything down to the lining was beautifully sewn, and there are even hidden pockets on the inside.

To tie everything together, you can’t go wrong with a classic pair of black heels. They match with almost anything and can instantly elevate your style.

These days, I find it difficult to tell the worth and quality of most garments. This outfit is a prime example of how looks can be deceiving. The most lavish pieces were secondhand, while the simplest one had the highest price tag. Modern day fashion has become a guessing game, but that’s what makes it more fun.

+ Lipstick | MAC’s Hang Up

+ Necklace | Forever 21

+ Purse | Poshmark

+ Crop Top | Are You Am I

+ Skirt | Abound (Goodwill)

+ Coat | Lun Fong (hand-me-down)

+ Heels | Urban Outfitters

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

FOR THE LOVE OF LEATHER

Everyone has that special item they've always dreamed of having one day. It could be anything from a Gucci bag to a pair of Jordans, or a Canon camera to a Tesla. Being in the fashion industry, there are MANY things that I want, but at the very top of my wishlist was a genuine leather jacket. Initially, I just wanted the perfect motorcycle jacket, regardless of the material, but after owning two pleather jackets, I wanted to try the real deal.

Disclaimer: I do have two genuine leather hand-me-downs from my mom, but they're coats. I wanted something casual that could go with more outfits. The coats are by Bebe and Frenchi, but naturally, my mom thrifted them both. It amazes me how they're still in mint condition after all these years. She owned them for over a decade, but who knows how long the previous owners had them for. In comparison to my pleather jackets, they aged much better.

The first one I had was a Silence + Noise bomber from Urban Outfitters (UO). It cost $128, which is quite expensive for faux leather. My friends, Ann and Angela, ended up splitting the price with me, for Christmas. When I wore it to high school for the first time, I felt a confusing mix of insecurity and fearlessness. It was such a statement, since no other girls were wearing leather at the time. It was a popular trend I saw on Tumblr and Lookbook, but not at my school. I received more compliments than I expected, and it quickly became one of my staple pieces. For the next five years, I wore it until it shred into pieces. 

The last one I got was a motorcycle jacket from YesStyle. Unlike the UO jacket, it was ridiculously affordable. I remember it being no more than $40 with shipping. Most leather jackets are fitted, but this one was thinner and looser. I liked how I could layer sweaters underneath it, but the silhouette was chunkier than I wanted. I didn’t wear it nearly as much as the UO one, but it was cheaper to keep than to ship back to Korea. Even with less wear, it still managed to peel at the collar.

After having two pleather jackets wear down, I asked the Internet if genuine leather has this same issue and it said “no.” Although genuine leather is easily scuffed, it doesn’t crack, as proven with my mom’s old coats. I don’t mind scratches, since they add more edginess and authenticity, but peeling will actually strip away the “leather” detail. It’s also irritating having to constantly clean up tiny black remnants. With all of this information, I convinced myself to invest in genuine leather, especially since I knew I'd wear it so much.

Before I decided to splurge on genuine leather, I already had an elaborate list of what I wanted in the jacket. Over the years, I browsed everywhere, including Asos, Zara, and Urban Outfitters, but I couldn't find any that met my standards. It frustrated me how contemporary leather jackets were mainly cropped and tight-fitted. This is the list of what I was actually looking for:

1. classic motorcycle collars

2. silver hardware

3. regular bottom length

4. regular sleeve length

5. room for a long-sleeved shirt or light sweater

6. no belt along the waist

In the genuine leather market, Acne Studios is the holy grail, but their prices are well over $1,000. The only garment I would ever spend this much on is probably my wedding dress. The next best option is AllSaints, which also has high quality and consistent branding. I've always admired their visual merchandising and dark and industrial style. Their leather jackets are mainly made from lambskin and are in the $500 range. This is about 1/3 of an Acne jacket, but is no doubt, still very expensive.

Leather jacket sizing is very unpredictable, since it heavily fluctuates, depending on the brand. Most tend to run small, but I didn't expect AllSaints to be this farfetched. I went to both their regular and outlet store to compare sizes, prices, and styles. I quickly realized that they're far from being size inclusive. Their jackets stop at size 10, which fit me like a small. I'm usually a size two, so it's insane that I had to upsize by four sizes. After trying on all of the motorcycle jackets they had, I chose the Dalby, which checked off every box on my list.

As I do before most of my purchases, I checked Poshmark to see if it had a better deal. There was only one person selling a size 10 Dalby jacket. It's listed at $450 on AllSaints, but I got this brand new one for $300.

After all these trials, you can say that I'm a tad bit leather crazy. I even have a tattoo of a girl in leather, so this more than just a trend to me. The leather jacket is a timeless design that I really value. This is the most I've spent on any clothing item, but at least it was still thrifted.

+ Lipstick | MAC’s Ruby Woo

+ Choker | Etsy

+ Bandana | Romwe

+ Leather Jacket | AllSaints (Poshmark)

+ T-Shirt | Romwe

+ Jeans | Abercrombie

+ Booties | Forever 21

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

DANGEROUS WOMAN

As I was looking through my closet for Halloween ideas, I saw this babydoll dress that reminded me of Ariana Grande. I thrifted it at Goodwill, last year, but still haven’t had the chance to wear it. With this dress, I already completed half of my costume, so it was the perfect piece to build on.

There are certain elements that define Ariana’s signature style. Aside from babydoll dresses, chokers, over-the-knee boots, and sky-high ponytails are also her trademark. Her Dangerous Woman look resonates with me most, since it’s so dark and sultry. For my costume, I wanted to recreate that album cover.

The most iconic part of the cover was definitely her latex bunny mask. Wearing skintight fabric over my head sounded extremely uncomfortable, so I chose this lace one for more breathability. I thought the veil was more fitting for Halloween, and it could also be tucked back if needed. 

Although I do own over-the-knee boots, I opted for these booties, since they elongate my legs more. My over-the-knee boots are flat, whereas these platforms are 2.75” tall.

The choker was the most difficult item to find, since most of the faux diamond chokers I saw were really tacky. Ariana wore a chunky diamond necklace that I would imagine Marilyn Monroe or Audrey Hepburn wearing. I wanted to emulate that classic Hollywood glam, but anything similar was completely out of my budget. Instead, I thrifted this BaubleBar choker for $8 on Poshmark.

For the final touch, I tried my best to do her high ponytail, but it was such a struggle. Doing hair isn’t my forte, even with a simple ponytail, like this. I spent around 30 minutes retying my hair and it still drooped to a regular ass ponytail. My goal is to perfect her hairstyle by Halloween.

This was a fairly easy costume to put together, since most of the garments were things that the average American girl wears. Chokers, stockings and black boots are staple pieces that many of us have. Tying a ponytail is also priceless. If you decide to be Ariana for Halloween, then you’re probably already halfway there.

+ Lipstick | MAC’s Black Knight

+ Mask | Amazon

+ Choker | BaubleBar (Poshmark)

+ Dress | Goodwill

+ Stockings | Romwe

+ Booties | Steve Madden (Poshmark)

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

THINK VERTICALLY

I have never owned a jumpsuit, since they never seem to fit me. I’m 5’2”, so most are too long, and I’m too lazy to tailor anything. I randomly found this in the dress section of Goodwill, and I really liked its muted minimal stripes. For a white secondhand garment, I was surprised by how spotless it was. I walked into the fitting room with very low expectations, since my experience with jumpsuits always ended the same. This time it was different, and the jumpsuit fit like a glove. 

Without shoes, the hem touched the ground, but it didn’t my swallow my feet. Everything about it was just so flattering. It has criss-cross straps that completely expose my back, and the high-waisted silhouette lifts and accentuates my butt. There are deep side pockets that can fit my phone, keys, and wallet. The vertical stripes even elongate my figure and make me look taller. The only thing I don’t like about this jumpsuit is how complicated it is to get in and out of it. If you know me, you know that I drink a A LOT of water and that I pee A LOT in result of that. It would be a bitch for me to wear this all day long, so I would only wear it to short outings.

+ Hoop Earrings | Claire’s

+ Jumpsuit | Forever 21 (Goodwill)

+ Heels | MRKT (hand-me-down)

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

APRIL THRIFT HAUL

1. STEVE MADDEN BOOTIES

Poshmark

$22

These are the first Steve Madden’s I’ve ever owned and they are so sleek and sexy. It took me a while to find clear-heeled booties because most of them are too high. I’m all about comfort, which is why I always wear wedges and booties for nights out. They add height, but still allow me to walk and dance all night long. The ankle section of these boots are skintight, so I wouldn’t be able to tuck jeans underneath. Even then, I like its modern shape, since it makes me feel like some kind of superhero. 

2. VICTORIA’S SECRET BRA

Poshmark

$5

At 25-years-old, I’ve finally gotten the memo on how to wash bras. My mama never told me not to put my bras in the dryer, so I’ve been doing it wrong my whole life. It took shredding my “everyday” bra and shrinking my sports bra, this month, to realize that. Bras are such delicate little garments, especially since they’re made from fine fabrics, like lace, silk, and satin. Although I rarely wear them, I like owning one, just in case. There are certain clothes and occasions where my pasties won’t do justice. After ruining the one padded bra I own, I bought this one from Poshmark. The velvet and deep jewel tone is what caught my eye, but this secondhand find is nowhere near perfect. It has a tiny hole that the seller conveniently failed to mention. Now that I’m going to start hang drying my bras, hopefully this one will last, even with its hole.

3. ATHLETA LEGGINGS

Poshmark

$15

My boss bought a pair of Athleta leggings, and I was so amazed by how soft they were. For years, I’ve been wearing cheap Forever 21 leggings. I’m on my third black pair, since the $3.90 price tag definitely reflects the durability. These will last one to two years, before they start ripping and I’ll have to replace them again. When I felt my boss’ leggings, I was convinced to invest in a pair of higher quality ones that will last. I’m tired of constantly having to buy replacements, since it’s so bad for the environment. Black leggings are also the bottoms I wear most, so why shouldn’t I buy the very best? I was really excited when I saw these reversible Athleta ones on Poshmark. Athleta leggings are normally in the $100 price range, but I paid $15 for two-in-one. On one side, is a greyscale ombre and on the other, is a solid black. These are by far, the most comfortable leggings I’ve ever owned. I’ve only known Forever 21 leggings, and these are much smoother than any of them.

4. CHEAP MONDAY SKIRT

Asos

$32.50

While writing my blog on Cheap Monday, I browsed what was left of their final collection and saw this skirt. I first saw this style, on Pinterest, and was searching everywhere for it! Most denim skirts have a rectangular silhouette, so I really liked this high-low cut. The Pinterest link led to Tumblr, so I had no idea what brand it was or if it was even available for purchase. It could have been a DIY, for all I know. When I saw this similar version on Asos, I couldn’t believe the odds. I discovered the pin, over a year ago, but had no luck finding the skirt. Now that I was shopping a brand that was closing down, I saw exactly what I wanted. It originally cost $89, but it was marked over 50% off.

5. RUFFLE TODDLER BLANKET

Free Birdees

$26 (for employees only)

My work just launched a line of bamboo kids clothes in January, and our material is ultra soft. Our pajamas don’t come in my size, so I wanted to buy a blanket, since the hand-feel is so amazing. These are toddler blankets, but my boss made them 60” long to accommodate adults. Sometimes my legs get really itchy, at night, and no matter how much lotion I apply, it doesn’t help. Once I take off my pants and cover my legs with the blanket, it immediately soothes my skin. Bamboo is especially good for hot summer weather, since it’s so breathable. Our blankets come in 5 solid colors and 8 prints. I helped design these prints and select our colors, so you should check them out! We actually just released our second collection on Endangered Animals, so there are a lot of fresh products on our website.

6. H&M HOODIE

Poshmark

$8

I had an identical version of this, from Romwe, but I accidentally ripped it this month. I know I have a big ass head, but Romwe’s clothes run very small. Whenever I shop there, it’s either a hit or miss. I bought that sweatshirt over two years ago, in a medium, but it fit like an extra small. The neckline was really tight, so I’ve finally ripped it, while tugging it over my head. I’ve been wanting an upgrade, anyways, since the mesh was so stiff and itchy. This H&M one looks practically the same, but is much softer and stretchier.

7. GYMSHARK CROP TOP

Poshmark

$28.95

I don’t know what it is about me and expensive black crop tops, but this is the second one I’ve bought this year. This one is a lot cheaper than the other one I got, but $30 is still out of my norm. Although I thrifted this on Poshmark, the resale value of Gymshark is barely lower than the retail price. According to the seller, this top was also brand new. I really wanted to try this brand, since I’ve been weightlifting for over two years and it’s very popular amongst weightlifters. I bought the top in a size small, but it fits more like an extra small. It’s stretchy, comfortable, and flattering and will be perfect for hiking and weightlifting. Because of the tight fit, I won’t be able to use it for high intensity workouts, though. Even if I raise my arms to do jumping jacks, the top would rise above my chest…

xx

Dana

RIP

As I was deep cleaning my closet this New Years, I found an old pair of jeans from high school that I was going to sell. These were buried with other clothes I already listed on Poshmark. For years, they had been sitting in a suitcase, while I was in college. My cousin gave them to me for Christmas, but they were too loose and bulky for me back then. Over four years later, I rediscovered them to find that I have finally grown into them. 

These were my first pair of Cheap Mondays, so I was hit with a buttload of nostalgia. My first instinct was to stalk them on Instagram to catch up on what’s new. All I saw was a blank white page with the bio, “R.I.P. Cheap Monday 2004-2019.” Just as I was reminded of an old favorite, I learned that it will be discontinued within the same year.

Although the jeans didn’t fit, at first, this introduced me to a badass lifestyle brand. I was really infatuated by the company’s bold and edgy branding. Even its farewell is cheeky and is consistent with who they are. Just take a look at its last marketing video and what’s left of its website, to see what I mean. 

Cheap Monday is a Swedish company that actually began as a thrift store. It didn’t start selling jeans until March 10, 2004, which also happened to be my birthday. I had just turned 10, so Cheap Monday was completely out of my radar. H&M then purchased the label in 2008 and turned it into a wholesale business. Many reputable retailers, like Asos, Urban Outfitters, and Opening Ceremony, carried its denim. It initially focused on a niche of skinny jeans, but later expanded to other clothes and accessories. Over the years, wholesaling proved to be difficult and Cheap Monday’s sales exceedingly plummeted. This has forced the brand to close all of its stores and wholesale accounts by June.

I made my first and last real Cheap Monday purchase this week. I’ve owned four pairs of Cheap Mondays, but three had been thrifted. The skull logo is very hard to miss, even at overflowing thrift stores. The ones I’m wearing are mid-rise, medium washed, and straight-legged. I normally go for a skinny fit, so I always roll these up. Otherwise, they look really crinkly at the bottom. Unlike some of my other jeans, I never have to worry about readjusting these. It also has oversized pockets that can fit the largest of wallets and smartphones. 

For many years, Cheap Monday was my premium choice for denim. I rarely have luck shopping for jeans, so I have yet to find that holy grail brand. If you have suggestions for petite, skinny girls, like me, do list them below. Your girl likes her jeans skinny, stretchy, and high-waisted.

+ Lipstick | MAC’s Heroine

+ Earrings | Old Navy

+ Backpack | Wilson’s Leather (Poshmark)

+ Scarf | gift

+ T-Shirt | Mudd (Mervyn’s)

+ Jeans | Cheap Monday (Opening Ceremony)

+ Belt | YesStyle

+ Boots | Dr. Martens (Wasteland)

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

FEBRUARY THRIFT HAUL

1. TREND BASICS SNEAKERS

Eco Thrift

$4.49

Several months ago, I had to toss out a similar pair of shoes because they were tearing apart. It was a shame, since the white was so easy to coordinate with. When I went to Eco Thrift, I saw several of this same style, but by different brands. I chose this pair, since they looked brand new, and I wear them almost every week, now.

2. NIKE SPORTS BRA

Poshmark

$7

I actually owned this exact same bra in a small, but I sold it because it was too tight. Even though I’m an A-cup in regular bras, I’ve learned that with sports bras, I have to size up. Otherwise, it’s just straight-up painful. The beauty of Poshmark is that I was able to sell my old one and buy a new one at a lower price. If you play your cards right, on Poshmark, you can save so much money.

3. GOLD BASKETS

H&M

$15.75

I’ve been wanting to rearrange my bedroom for so long, but I’ve put it off for over a year. I have this old brown cabinet that I want to sell, but it stored so much of my papers and supplies. My temporary solution is to use small baskets to clear out the drawers. I browsed on Pinterest and on many home goods websites. I even went to Target and Marshalls, but the only look I liked was this metallic one. Spending over $30 on two baskets sounds ridiculous, but this price was surprisingly the norm. I’ve always had a thing for gold-wired baskets, and this one can fit A LOT of crap.

4. MORAL FIBER CARDIGAN

Goodwill

$9.99

Every girl needs a basic cardigan that goes with everything, and I finally found mine. The charcoal matches with any color, and the material is so soft and comfortable. It has that special hand-feel that would make people want to cuddle with you.

5. NOBLE U DRESS

Eco Thrift

$6.57

This burnt orange dress will be perfect for the fall, especially with some knee-high boots. It gives a lot of coverage, but is very form-fitting. The tight silhouette really accentuates the curves and toosh. There’s also a caged cutout that’s supposed to be worn in front, but it looks just as good in the back, as well.

6. METHOD BODY WASH

Target

$6.29

This body wash smells so, so good. It’s a blend of coconut, rice milk, and shea butter, and it feels so nourishing against my skin. One small dab goes a long way, so I think this large bottle will last a year, if not more. Method is known for its natural and cruelty-free cleaning supplies, like dish soap and detergent. It only just begun producing body washes, and for all the eco-friendly qualities that its products have, the prices are extremely reasonable.

7. FOREVER 21 TRENCH COAT

Goodwill

$6.50

For a Forever 21 duster, this fabric feels really smooth and luxurious. It’s almost like a baby version of suede. Although this is a piece of outerwear, it’s very lightweight and has room for very thick layers. Because it’s so thin, it will be a nice transition piece for spring, since the weather will be less chilly, but still slightly rainy and windy.

8. WILD FABLE TUBE TOP

Poshmark

$5

As a fashion graduate, I’m always coming up with new outfit in my head. Last year, I thrifted a mesh jersey, on Poshmark, and thought that it would pair best with a black tube top. Tube tops are such classic staple pieces, but I’ve never owned a simple solid one, like this. This is a versatile item that can be turned into so many different looks.

9. SKORT

Eco Thrift

$3.19

The last time I owned a skort was probably in elementary school. I’d choose a skort over a skirt, any day, but it’s unfortunately a rare find. Based on the stitching and lack of labels, this one was definitely homemade. Its vibrant shade of red is what caught my eye, and this alone, will make it a really fun piece to style.

10. NIKE AIR FORCE 1

Goodwill

$9.99

These kicks were released in 2016, so the previous owner certainly put good wear into them. I was hesitant to buy them, at first, since the white had faded to beige. Even then, there are no prominent stains. Unless you held the shoes up to your face, you wouldn’t be able to tell that they are 3-years-old. These sneakers have the magic of making sweatpants look good, so I’m looking forward to wearing them on my lazy days.

11. FOREVER 21 BIKINI TOP

Poshmark

$9

I was contemplating on buying this bikini for Indonesia, last summer, but I regrettably chose not to. It quickly sold out, within a week, so I’ve been trying to find it on Poshmark, since. I finally saw a listing, this month, but the seller had a different sized top and bottom. I only bought the top, and I’m really loving its fit and color combination. Normally I don’t like color, but I’ve always had a soft spot for blush and mauve. Fingers crossed that I can somehow find the matching bottoms to this set.

xx

Dana

LADY LAMB

Nothing is more difficult to thrift than a good quality jacket. Tops? I have so many that I’ve created a selling/donations pile. Bottoms? I’ve collected all sorts, from skirts to shorts to jeans. Dresses? I always end up lugging an armful to the fitting room. Shoes? Your girl is an average size 7, so that’s never an issue.

Outerwear is a tricky category because the ones I see at thrift stores are often too big or too heavy. I want to stay warm, but I don’t want to be weighed down. Most of my coats and jackets are actually hand-me-downs because I can’t bring myself to splurge on them. I rarely find anything in my budget that’s worthwhile, and thrifting has proven to be a challenge.

It took me months, if not a year, to find a jacket, like this. I was infatuated with shearling after seeing my favorite YouTuber, Jenn Im, feature it on her channel. Her jacket is from a Korean brand, called K-styleme, which has unfortunately been discontinued. I got this similar version, from Poshmark, which practically looks the same. They both have biker collars, silver hardware, and all-over white shearling.

My jacket is by UNIF, which is an edgy streetwear label based in Los Angeles. It prides itself on scarcity and limited styles, and its outerwear sells from the mid to high $100 range. When I spotted this on Poshmark, it was already listed below $100, but I bargained it down to $60. The material was in mint condition, so the price was more than reasonable. Still, this is probably the most I’ve spent on a jacket because I’m the stingiest shopper, ever.

This fluffy piece has been with me since fall 2016, and it always keeps me warm and toasty in the winter. Whenever I wear it, I don’t even need to carry a bag because there are enough pockets for all of my essentials. It has two regular side pockets, two upper breast pockets, and a camouflaged bottom pocket that I failed to notice until last month. I like packing light, and this oversized jacket can hold my phone, wallet, keys, and lip balm. It allows me to be hands and hassle free, which I love.

+ Jacket | UNIF (Poshmark)

+ Crop Top | Forever 21

+ Leggings | Forever 21

+ Tote | Leonisa (MAGIC Trade Show)

+ Flats | Urban Outfitters

+ Earrings | Romwe

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

NOVEMBER THRIFT HAUL

1. FOREVER 21 JUMPSUIT

Goodwill

$7.99

The short person struggle of finding a jumpsuit is too real. When I grabbed this from the rack, I anticipated disappointment, but it was surprisingly a perfect fit. According to my boyfriend, vertical stripes also make people appear taller. Whoever owned these, must’ve hemmed the legs because it wasn’t cropped online and there’s no way 5’2” is a standard height. This jumpsuit hugs all of the right places and the bare criss-crossed back is very flattering. It even has pockets, which I always appreciate. 

2. TURTLENECK

Poshmark

$7

It’s about time that I own a turtleneck, like this. I’ve been wanting a black mesh one for so long, but had no luck thrifting it, until now. Even though it’s thin and sheer, I’d still wear it on a winter night out. It can be layered, both over and underneath, with undershirts and outerwear. There’re also so many textures that can glam it up, like fur, leather, and metalware. Black can essentially go with anything, so the options are limitless. 

3. ROC RETINOL COREXXION EYE CREAM

Amazon

$15.09

I’m finally popping my eye cream cherry at 24. My mom would always use it and most of my friends swear by it. I was reluctant to add eye cream to my beauty routine, since it’s already expensive, as is. I’ve always had this terrible habit of rubbing my eyes and realized that my crows feet were becoming more prominent. This triggered me into getting eye cream and taking extra care of my skin. Before, I would always forget to moisturize my under eyes, since they’re such awkward and delicate areas. They used to be so dry and crusty, but now they look much brighter and healthier. I actually saw an immediate change and couldn’t stop stroking my under eyes, due to how smooth they’ve gotten.

4. KICKEE PANTS PAJAMA SET

Two Birdees

$41 (wholesale)

If you haven’t tried bamboo clothing, then you’re really missing out, especially if you have kids. I can’t stress, enough, how buttery soft and comfortable this material is. It melts on your skin and cools you down, which is a godsend for babies. My company carries, Kickee Pants, a bamboo clothing brand, that has a big cult following. They’re best known for baby and kids’ pajamas, but also produce a small selection of adult clothes. Because of their eco-friendly manufacturing process, the prices are much steeper. For many moms, the benefits outweigh the costs, since bamboo is so soothing for sensitive skin. Before working at Two Birdees, I was completely unaware of this fiber, but now I want it in every product category, possible. If only adult-sized bamboo pillowcases and bedsheets existed, I’d totally splurge. Everyone wants to feel the utmost comfort, at home, so why not invest in high quality sleepwear? Aside from underwear, these are probably the most religiously worn garments in our closet.

5. ZARA SKIRT

Goodwill

$4.99

This isn’t a style I would typically gear towards, but I thought it would be useful for Halloween, one year. Bright, poofy and glittery are the main ingredients for a fairy or princess costume. It will probably come in good use for other holidays and special occasions, as well. This is a dressy skirt that can elevate any look and match with any color. 

6. WTF PLANNER

Hadron Epoch

$22.50

It’s November, which means the year is almost finished, along with my planner. I’ve always preferred writing down dates and plans, instead of typing them onto my phone or computer. This way, I retain the information better. It’s also very satisfying when I fill up every page and get a fresh start at the beginning of each year. Similar to the idea of a journal, I love being able to look back on old memories and accomplishments. For next year, I chose a simple grey planner that looks like a classic library book. It has everything I need and then some. What I look for, in a planner, are both monthly and weekly sections. I use the monthly calendar for main events and special occasions, and the weekly pages are for my daily schedule. The special thing about this planner is that it has a financial planning organizer. I’ve been using Google Sheets for budgeting, so it’ll be convenient to have one designated place for all record keeping. The cutest perks, of all, are the checklists for “Places to Go” and “Movies & TV Shows to Watch.” This must be every Type A’s dream.

7. GOJANE JERSEY

Poshmark

$5

I must admit, I bought this jersey just so I could wear it to Disneyland, one day. Being that it’s located in Los Angeles, I thought it would be fitting to wear this, there. I even own black mouse ears to go with it. The mesh material is incredibly breathable, which will be beneficial against LA’s heat. With a black tube top and denim shorts, I’ll be ready to walk in the sun, all day.

8. GAP VEST

Goodwill

$3.99

I’m always surprised when I thrift sportswear, in mint condition, especially if it’s white. This crisp and clean vest, I found, is entirely spotless. It has mesh, low-cut armholes that has just the right amount of “peek-a-boo.” My black Nike sports bra, in contrast with this stark white vest, would create the ideal sporty look. It’s sleek, modern and monochrome.

9. LOU & GREY T-SHIRT DRESS

Goodwill

$6.99

The minimal stripes are what caught my eye, but the touch of the fabric is what sold me. Lou & Grey is a women’s clothing brand that prides itself on softness. Their “soft” is quite different from Kickee Pants “soft,” though. Kickee Pants is made entirely from bamboo, which has a smooth and cool texture. The Lou & Grey dress I bought is a rayon and spandex blend, which feels heavier, yet cozier than bamboo. It’s actually one size too big, for me, so I plan on wearing it as a nightdress.

10. KICKEE PANTS BOXERS

Two Birdees

$10 (wholesale)

Men’s boxers are the best alternative for pajama shorts. Not only do I like boxer prints and colors more, but the prices are also significantly lower. I don’t normally like colorful products, but I couldn’t resist this beautiful koinobori print, by Kickee Pants. The design is like a work of art, and the color palette gives me a retro 60s vibe. My boss actually gave me a KP pajama set, a year ago, and it instantly became my favorite. I always find myself reaching for those pajama shorts, first. As I mentioned before, nothing can compete with the comfort of bamboo fabric. I can only imagine these boxers being just as loose and weightless, if not more, because of its baggy silhouette.

xx

Dana

HOWL

Up until freshman year of college, I had never watched anime. I may have seen mainstream shows, like Pokemon and Sailor Moon, but I was too little to retain anything that happened. When I shared this with my friend, Mo, he gave me a lot of shit and insisted that I watch a Hayao Miyazaki film. It was the start of Thanksgiving break and campus was secluded, aside from small clusters of international and out-of-state students. The rest of our friends had left and most restaurants were closed, so we ordered Chinese takeout and watched Princess Mononoke.

Miyazaki is known for developing strong female leads, and the protagonist, San, was nothing short of that. As a baby, her parents sacrificed her to wolves, and she grew up to lead the pack. These wolves immersed her into wildlife and raised her to be ruthless and independent. 

I knew I had to be this badass bitch for Halloween, one day, but recreating her look would be difficult. She’s not a character you’d see at Halloween stores, and I didn’t want to design my costume from scratch. Like all of my previous costumes, I wanted it to be an assortment of wearable, everyday clothes.

Being the extra me that I am, I’ve stowed away my faux fur hat for almost five years, for this costume. I’m always keen on stashing good finds for future use. This is when my Pinterest and planner come into play. I’m that person who will start brainstorming for next year, right after Halloween has ended. I purchased this hat while working at Zara, my sophomore year. A customer had returned it several seasons later, so I got a steep discount. It was the closest thing I could find to San’s cape, so I felt obligated to buy it.

For the rest of my look, I tried to thrift as much as I could. My first stop was Goodwill, where I found my dress and shoes. I didn’t own any tan, slouchy boots, like hers, but I wasn’t going to kill myself over a pair of shoes. The sheepskin moccasins were a rare and lucky find and only cost $2.99.

As expected, jewelry was impossible to thrift, so I resulted to ASOS and Romwe. I didn’t want literal duplicates of San’s jewelry, since I couldn’t see myself wearing them, again. Instead of shell earrings, I got white fuzzy hoops to match my fur hat. For the armbands, I could’ve used blue ribbon, but ASOS was conveniently selling a pack of 2 arm cuffs for $2.

The hardest items to look for were the top and necklace. I spent weeks online browsing for anything remotely similar. I substituted her ivory wolf fangs with a layered statement necklace. Its spearheads and moon crescent have the same warrior-like quality that I wanted.

The top was a challenging key term search because I didn’t know what to call it. Slit, side cut, side scoop, muscle tank, and sleeveless sweater were all of the variations I tried, to find the right match. It was none other than Pinterest, that recommended a comparable look, by Pull&Bear. The sweater was sold out on their website, but like most cases, Poshmark came in clutch. I found the exact same one and bargained it down to $5.

It was like a guessing game shopping from different places, but in the end, the pieces gelled really well, together. The essential part is that I love them all (minus the oversized arm cuffs) individually, and I can’t wait to blend them into my everyday wardrobe.

+ Faux Fur Hat | Zara

+ Statement Necklace | ASOS

+ Hoop Earrings | Romwe

+ Arm Cuffs | ASOS

+ Sweater | Pull&Bear (Poshmark)

+ Dress | Merona (Goodwill)

+ Moccasins | Minnetonka (Goodwill) 

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

APRIL THRIFT HAUL

1. ABOUND MIDI SKIRT

Goodwill

$6.99

This skirt is made of stretchy spandex, with a layer of shimmery gold. The material is smooth and soothing against my skin, and the A-line silhouette is very flattering for my petit body. The high waist and midi-length makes my short self feel slightly thinner and taller. With its pleats and metallic sheen, this piece possesses a lot of elegance. 

2. SOPRANO SKIRT

Goodwill

$4.99

I own very few “going out” skirts, so this purchase will be put into good use. Mesh is one of my favorite materials, and I love the shape that it creates here. The dramatic pleats sets these bottoms apart from most ordinary black skirts.

3. BLOOD ORANGE CANDLE

Target

$9.99

Last winter, my boyfriend and I couch surfed at my friend’s apartment, in Los Angeles. In the morning, we woke up to the sweet and fruity smell of this blood orange candle. It’s always a challenge for me to find candles that I really like. This was immediately added to my shopping list, but my friend, Emily, ended up getting it for my birthday. I typically burn it, at night, when I’m doing a light workout or am winding down before bed.

4. LUSH SHORTS

Goodwill

$4.99

I always prefer clothes that look trendy, but are comfy and easy to wear. These floral shorts look best, high-waisted, with a crop top or a tucked-in shirt. They have an elastic waistband, so they slip on and off effortlessly. The stretchiness makes them very forgiving on food babies, and they're a refreshing break from tight denim shorts.

5. REFLECTIVE SUNGLASSES

lost and found

$0

My boyfriend, Adam, works at Century Theatres, and spotted these in the lost and found. He is in charge of this department, so he just gave the sunglasses to me. All of the ones I own happen to have mirror lenses. It’s not a choice I consciously make, but I do like how they completely shield my eyes. People say that eyes are the window to your soul, and as an introvert, I’d like to remain a mystery to most. 

6. SELFIE LESLIE MAXI DRESS

Goodwill

$6.99

Florals and pastels are heavily associated with weddings, so this dress is fit for the occasion. What’s special about its peony print is the watercolor-like design. This, along with the cut of the gown, adds a lot of romantic elements. It may reveal a little bit of skin, but in a very tasteful way. The high slit exposes one leg, while the neckline bares the shoulders. This thrift find came at the right moment, since I just received a wedding invitation, this week.

7. FRANCESCA'S MAXI DRESS

Goodwill

$6.99

I don’t normally do bold colors, but red has always been an exception. It’s a very sexy and striking color, even in this red-orange hue. This is an airy and lightweight dress that’s perfect for summer. Its back is entirely exposed, aside from a pair of criss-cross straps. A black leather jacket would accentuate the embroidery and really tie the look together.

8. CLEMENTINE KIDS SWADDLE

Two Birdees

$9

I already bought a Clementine Kids swaddle, last month, but I couldn't resist these colors. This is the company’s signature design, and it tends to sell out quickly. The print is very quirky, and I like how the mint and moss leaves compliment the bright orange. I thought this would look great as a beach or picnic blanket, so I’m looking forward to using this in the summer.

9. DEAD SEA MUD MASK

Amazon

$13.95

To remove impurities and keep my skin feeling soft, I use mud masks, once a week. All the masks I’ve used until now, had a 30-minute wait before rinsing. This one has a very creamy formula, and only takes a 10-minute wait and a light lather to wash off. Its other perks, include reducing pores and removing excess oil. The reason why I choose mud masks over sheet masks is because it lasts for months and produces less trash. In the long run, this will benefit both my wallet and the environment.

10. STILA MOLTEN MIDNIGHT EYESHADOW

Sephora

$24

I usually wear eyeshadow only for special events, like formals and weddings. After seeing YouTuber, Sophia Chang, demonstrate this product, I really wanted to try it. This liquid eyeshadow has a cotton swab applicator, just like lipgloss. I adore its sleek packaging, and unlike most glittery make up, these sparkles have minimal fallout. Emily knew that I wanted this, so it was part two of her birthday present, for me!

11. VSS DISPOSABLE WEED PEN

lost and found

$0

This is another lost and found article that I inevitably took. Adam cleaned it with alcohol wipes, so I won’t be catching any deadly diseases. Weed tends to make me drowsy, so I thought that getting a pen would help me fall asleep. I have to get up at 8am on weekdays, but my inner night owl has me tossing around. Adam already owns two pens, and this one basically has my name engraved on it. For one, it's made in my favorite color, and two, it says “BB” on the bottom. This actually stands for BBTank, but it’s also what Adam likes to call me. 

12. DOLLS KILL OVERALL DRESS

Goodwill

$6.99

The holographic leather is what caught my eye, but once I saw the Dolls Kill hang tag, I was sold. This is an overall dress with harness-like straps and metal hardware. It’s a bold statement piece that I would wear to a club, concert, or music festival. I have never seen anything like it, and I'm just waiting for any excuse to wear it.

13. ON THE BYAS JERSEY

Goodwill

$4.99

This jersey is from a men’s line that's sold at PacSun. It’s a size small, but fits like an oversized dress, on me. All of the cool tones work beautifully together, and I was very impressed with the quality. PacSun does not strike me as a premium store, so I did not expect to see this much attention to detail. Everything, down to the labels, was executed flawlessly. You know it’s a high quality garment, when even the labels look and feel luxurious.

14. LAUNDRY BAG

H&M

$17.99 

Ever since I moved in with my brother, I have been extremely spoiled. I was always babied growing up, and did not have to worry about cooking or cleaning, until I went to college. As soon as I moved back home, the same cycle persisted. My brother kept cooking dinner, cleaning the house, and even doing my laundry. We shared the same laundry basket, but have very different routines. In college, I would do my laundry every other week. This was the amount of time it took for my basket to fill up or for me to run out of underwear. My brother is the complete opposite, and often does laundry twice a week. I figured that buying my own laundry bag would force me to do laundry, and so far, it's been a success.

15. MISSGUIDED FISHNET BIKINI

Poshmark

$28

A fellow Drexel alum posted this on her blog, which lead me to an impulsive shopping moment. The suit was sold out on Missguided, so my last resort was Poshmark. The chances of finding the same suit in my size are slim, but luck was on my side. Everything was brand new, but the seller had sold the fishnet briefs, separately. All I got was the fishnet bikini top and thong bottoms. After days of searching the internet, I finally found an exact version, on Shein, to complete my set. 

xx

Dana

MARCH BIRTHDAY HAUL

1. CLEMENTINE KIDS ZOOLOGY SWADDLE

Two Birdees

$9

I work at an organic, online kidswear company, called Two Birdees. We carry over 30 brands, and sell clothing, accessories, and toys. There are certain brands we have that make such cute prints, I wish they would design clothes in my size, too. Clementine Kids is the newest addition to our family, and they sell swaddles, which are basically baby blankets. They have so many beautiful, quirky prints, that I couldn’t resist buying one. I am planning on wearing it as a scarf or using it as home decor. One of the perks of being an employee is that I get to buy products at wholesale price, so it was 50% off.

2. ROSE GOLD HANGERS (30-PACK)

Amazon

$32.90

I have been using these hangers for years, but my brother got me more for my birthday. They were much needed because every time I plan an outfit, I end up piling my clothes onto “that one chair.” I have been using a dresser to store most of my wardrobe, but folded clothes quickly turn into a tossed-around mess. I am slowly switching everything to hangers, since it eliminates wrinkles and makes finding things so much easier.

3. MACRAME HANGING PLANTER

Amazon

$16.98

My boyfriend got me a Christmas Cactus last year, for Valentine’s Day, and it has begun blooming. Its branches can grow super long, depending on the size of its pot. Because it’s so unpredictable, I wanted to hang it from my ceiling, so that it can bloom, freely. I got this simple planter in a medium, but it comes in various sizes and styles on Amazon.

4. NUDE OFF-THE-SHOULDER SWEATSHIRT

Poshmark

$7

I love it when designers tweak basic staple pieces by adding a new, refreshing quality. All of the sweatshirts I own have an unusual twist, and this one has a single shoulder strap. The silhouette is off-the-shoulder, which slightly reveals my tattoo. It’s always nice getting to show off a little skin and ink. 

5. SETTLERS OF CATAN EXTENSION PACK

Amazon

$25.60

My friends and I often have game nights, and Settlers of Catan is one of our go-to's. We all wanted an extension pack, so my best friend, Ann, got me the Explorers and Pirates one, as a birthday present. I really enjoy strategy games, so I will definitely continue to build my collection and buy other extension packs.

6. URBAN OUTFITTERS LACE-UP SHIRT

Poshmark 

$6

I specially bought this shirt for my birthday, but I have been looking for something like it, for a while. Lace-up and cut-out clothes are two of my favorite styles. This top was listed at $8, on Poshmark, which is cheap as is. The seller then offered me an additional discount, and sold it at $6. With that money, I could probably just afford an accessory at Urban Outfitters, so this was such a good deal.

7. FENTY BEAUTY TROPHY WIFE HIGHLIGHTER

Sephora

$34

I only wear make up when I go out, and this consists of eyeliner, concealer, and lipstick. I don’t know jack about make up trends, so I never add anything extra, like contour or highlighter. After seeing raving reviews and pictures of Rihanna’s gold highlighter, I was convinced to change things up. I wanted that extra glow, and Ann treated me, once again, by getting this for my birthday.

8. CAT DISPOSABLE CAMERA

Urban Outfitters

Gift

All of my friends know that I am a crazy cat lady, so it’s inevitable that I would get something cat-related. My friend, Tony, gifted me this camera that comes with different cat graphics on each frame. The last time I used a disposable camera was either in elementary or middle school. Lately, I have been using my polaroid or Shutterfly account to print photographs. This is such a sweet and nostalgic present, and I am kind of intimated to use it. Hopefully I won’t waste any frames on bad pictures…

9. BRA(LETTE)

Poshmark

$13

I am all about freeing the nipple and refuse to wear a bra the majority of the time. Now that I have a full-time job, it would unfortunately be “unprofessional” for me to go braless. Most of my bras were extremely worn out, so I was left with a lot of bralettes. The best part about this bra is that it comes with removable pads. It has the appearance of a bralette, but can be worn as a regular, padded bra, when necessary. After surviving on pasties for months, this has become my new it-bra.

10. SEAMLESS UNDIES

UNIQLO

$7.50

I have finally found an alternative to thongs. Thanks to YouTuber, Weylie, I discovered that thongs are not the only option for hiding underwear lines. UNIQLO’s AIRism underwear are so thin, that no lines are visible. They are extremely stretchy and comfortable, and I hope that the company will produce more colors.

xx

Dana

RISKY BUSINESS

I’m guilty of stealing my boyfriend’s clothes all the time, but this isn’t one of those occasions. I actually found this shirt in the men’s section of Goodwill. Since Valentine’s Day is coming up, I wanted to pay homage to the classic boyfriend shirt. The term, “boyfriend,” isn’t meant to be taken literally, though. The fashion industry has turned it into another adjective for “oversized.” I’ve always had a thing for oversized shirts and sweaters, since they’re so comfy and casual. Sometimes, they even turn out as decent dresses.

I’m sure you’re familiar with the iconic Risky Business scene, where Tom Cruise dances in nothing, but socks and a button-up. This 1983 movie really inspired women to wear oversized dress shirts. Many girls dress down in this disheveled look, for Halloween, but the boyfriend shirt has become a major street style trend, as well.

Slipping on a boyfriend shirt alludes to ease and carelessness. It gives you that “just rolled out of bed” appeal, and specifically his, for that matter. As the online newsletter, Racked, explained, it’s about “clothing that was left on the floor” and “a reminder of a private space in public." The idea is borderline risqué, but enough to remain publicly “appropriate.” 

As Valentine’s Day creeps up, there’s no problem with wearing your heart on your sleeve. After dressing up for date night, borrowing a simple shirt the next day is a refreshing option.

+ Lipstick | MAC’s Paramount 

+ Glasses | Borough Market (London)

+ Necklace | Forever 21

+ Earrings | Old Navy

+ Button-Up | GAP (Goodwill)

+ T-Shirt | Mudd

+ Jeggings | DL 1961 (Buffalo Exchange)

+ Socks | Forever 21

+ Shoes | Forever 21

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

FIT FOR A FANCY FEAST

Holiday season is finally here, so I put together a thrifted, high-end look that’s fit for a Christmas or New Years party. This is a formal, yet minimal outfit. People tend to think of red, green, and shimmering sparkles for the Holidays, but you can never go wrong with a classic black and white combo.

For this look, I paired an off-the-shoulder crop top with an A-line midi skirt. Together, they reveal a little bit of skin, while still remaining classy. The flowy, high-waisted skirt balances the short and tight fit of my blouse. I found this skirt at Salvation Army with the original tag attached. It’s designed by Ellen Tracy and was selling for $378, but I got it for $5.99. I can’t imagine spending that much on an outfit, let alone on one item of clothing.

The same thing goes for jewelry. I can care less about authentic gold and diamond, and will opt for custom jewelry, any day. Since my look is on the dressier side, I accessorized it with dainty jewelry. I really wanted Are You Am I’s Clasp Choker, but $139 is still not ideal. Thanks to Etsy, I found a similar version for $13.50. I kept my other accessories just as simple and piled on more black.

The highlight of this look is definitely the Tadashi Shoji crop top. I bought this top at Goodwill in high school, and it was one of the first few designer pieces I thrifted. Its draping and ruching has a fancy appeal, but the garment is effortlessly wearable. The tulle material is stretchy and breathable, and within one zip, everything stays in place. I never have to worry about adjusting my sleeves, as I do with most off-the-shoulder tops.

These silhouettes and proportions give off an old-fashioned vibe, and make me feel very elegant. Sometimes, the key to making a statement is by wearing no color at all. Why blend in with the Christmas decorations, when you can stand out? 

+ Choker | Etsy

+ Ring | Old Navy

+ Clutch | Clemente (hand-me-down)

+ Crop Top | Tadashi Shoji (Goodwill)

+ Skirt | Ellen Tracy (Salvation Army)

+ Heels | Urban Outfitters

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

SHINING, SHIMMERING SPLENDID

The last time I was a Disney Princess, I was probably seven. Now, I tend to choose zombies and villains over princesses. Looking back at the past two Halloweens, I was Wednesday Addams and The Corpse Bride. Pretty and pure isn’t my likely go-to, but, this year, I wanted to coordinate a costume from items I already owned. 

I had mint green harem pants and a green gem choker, so Princess Jasmine, it was. I got my harem pants, years ago, from a flea market in Vietnam. They’re very loose and lightweight, so I mainly used them as pajama bottoms. The choker is from Forever 21, but I received it as a Christmas gift. Based on these two pieces, I began to build my costume.

When shopping for Halloween costumes, I try to purchase clothes that I’d wear again. The main thing I was missing from my ensemble was a green crop top. As most of you know, I rarely wear color, and my closet is dominated by neutrals. Looking for a wearable green top was a struggle, so I ended up thrifting a sports bra. My favorite part about the bra is the back cutout and the way it exposes my back tattoo. It only cost $9, and activewear always comes in handy.

For the accessories, I didn’t want it to look like cheap, Halloween props, so I opted for delicate, minimal pieces. In the movie, Princess Jasmine wore a teal, jeweled headband and gold chunky statement jewelry. I knew that I’d never wear a teal headband again, so I searched for a gold hair chain with turquoise accents, instead. I found mine for $7 on Poshmark, but there’re many other variations on Etsy. For an extra touch, I added a gold body chain to my outfit. This was another $7 Poshmark find, but other styles are sold on Etsy, as well.

There’re so many interpretations you can create from Princess Jasmine’s look, but as long as you have a blue or green clothing set, people should get the point. The key is color coordination. Just make sure that your garments are cool tones and your bling bling is gold.

+ Headpiece | Wet Seal (Poshmark)

+ Choker | Forever 21

+ Body Chain | Poshmark

+ Sports Bra | Jo+Jax (Poshmark)

+ Harem Pants | Vietnam

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

SWEAT IT OUT

LOOK ONE

LOOK TWO

Yeah, I know that thrifting sportswear may sound gross. The thought of someone else profusely sweating in it might come to mind. That didn’t stop me from giving it a chance, though. I mean, think about all of those (including me) who frequently lounge and run errands in sportswear, instead of exercising in them. Maybe this is why I can actually find decent, secondhand "workout clothes."

Nearly everything I’m wearing was from Goodwill, and all items were in great condition. After years of exercising in them, this still holds true. With sportswear, I always make sure to inspect the garments carefully. I never purchase anything smelly, stained, or worn out. It’s very transparent if something has been heavily used. For instance, the smell of B.O. or the discoloration of underarm sweat stains are easy giveaways.

When I first began thrift shopping I was surprised to find such a plethora of sportswear. At this point I have collected several Nike, Reebok, and Adidas gear. The best part is that I roughly spend $5 on each item, which I doubt, can even get me a pair of socks at Nike. Sportswear can get really expensive if you’re shopping for quality construction that won’t wear and tear when working out. I can’t imagine how much all of my sportswear would cost if I bought them brand new, but I’m content with keeping it that way.

+ Sunglasses | Forever 21

+ Jacket | Nike (Buffalo Exchange)

+ Sports Bra | Nike

+ Racerback | Adidas (Goodwill)

+ Shorts | Nike (Goodwill)

-

+ Pullover | Adidas (Goodwill)

+ Crop Top | Reebok (Goodwill)

+ Leggings | Forever 21

+ Sneakers | Nike (Tiffany Run)

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana

BAD + BOUGIE

You can still be bad and bougie if you can’t afford For Love and Lemons or Agent Provocateur lingerie. Lingerie is probably the last thing most women would consider thrifting, but great quality, condition, and labels do exist at thrift stores. I’ve thrifted all sorts of intimates, from bras and nightgowns to robes and slippers. The only thing I never thrift is underwear and for obvious reasons. Although I can’t expect what to find while thrifting, depending on what I’m looking for, I use these three resources to hunt for lingerie.

There will always be better quality and designers at consignment stores, since all merchandise is inspected and pre-selected. Buffalo Exchange is where I normally find nightgowns from trendy brands, like Free People and Urban Outfitters. I bought my Free People nightgown at Buffalo during Halloween, since it typically blends lingerie into the costume section. There’s always a plethora of kinky finds, like fishnets, corsets, and garters, throughout this season.

If I’m shopping for bras, then I use the app, Poshmark, since bras are rarely sold in thrift stores, let alone ones that fit perfectly. Similar to eBay, clothing categories can be narrowed down to specifics, like size, color, and condition. Another convenient feature is being able to trade items, instead of purchasing them. This is actually how I got my black aerie bandeau. I swapped it with a lipstick that I never wore. With bras being so expensive these days, online thrifting is another way to find cute and affordable bras.

When it comes to regular thrift stores, like Goodwill and Salvation Army, it all results to luck. The chance of discovering spotless, high-end lingerie is much slimmer, but it isn’t impossible. After all, I snagged my Christian Dior robe for about $10 at Goodwill. Dior has stopped producing lingerie for years, so I was surprised to find this vintage piece in mint condition. Without thrift shopping there’s no way I could own valuable gems, like this.

Lingerie is definitely a luxury that many girls want, but can’t afford. It’s funny how something so thin and fragile can cost so much money. This is why thrift shopping is a great alternative for purchasing lingerie. It makes sense to invest in regular everyday clothes, rather than garments that rarely anyone sees, but thrifting has eliminated this dilemma for me. I never have to compensate one for the other. I can still shop for both, while saving an immense amount of money.

+ Choker | Forever 21

+ Robe | Dior (Goodwill)

+ Bralette | aerie (Poshmark)

+ Undies | Forever 21

+ Slippers | Donna Salyers' Fabulous Furs (hand-me-down)

+ Nightgown | Free People (Buffalo Exchange)

Photography | Adam Redfield

xx

Dana