Melodic, Thrifty, Chic…perfect words to describe today’s Thrifty Friend feature. I remember stumbling across Anna’s blog months ago. I was so taken with her unique and eclectic sense of style, and the fact that she was an avid thrifter served as a huge bonus! Melodic, Thrifty & Chic is actually the name of her blog and she is indeed all that, and MORE. Oh…one more thing before you scroll down to read! Anna attended university in Nishinomiya, Japan and is proficient in Japanese. Pretty cool, right?! OK, now you can scroll down and read more to find out her thoughts on thrifting – enjoy! 🙂
Name, Location & Blog?
Anna Martin from the Midwest and my blog is Melodic, Thrifty & Chic.
How long have you been a thrifter?
My mom really inspired me, as she would often take me shopping with her when I was younger. She always went straight for the sale racks and she would have a ton of clothes in her cart by the time we’d get to the check-out counter. I always expected the final total to be in the triple digits given how much stuff she had, but it never reached that level. My mom could do a lot for us with very little and I really respected that.
How often do you thrift and what are a few of your favorite thrift spots?
I’m on a year-long spending freeze, so the only new clothing I receive is from my clothing swap group (for the cost of shipping). However, prior to this, I would thrift as often as I could. If I had the money to spend, I’d spend it (albeit as wisely as possible!) I have quite a few vintage shops that I love, but unfortunately there aren’t any thrift shops that I frequent in my area. If we had a Buffalo Exchange, I would certainly go there!
What would you say to someone who wants to try thrifting but has no clue where to start?
Oh dear. Well, I would tell this person to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a lot of sifting. Thrift stores vary in terms of how organized (and clean) they are. So, you’ll have to make a choice as far as where you’d like to shop. I’ve been to thrift stores where clothing is just piled on the floor in some parts of the store. It’s off-putting, but I’ve also found things I love from picking through those piles. Of course, it goes without saying that you should thoroughly wash everything you’ve bought before wearing it! I’ve been to really well maintained thrift stores, too! In that regard, some of the best ones have fitting rooms! Not all, though, so you should also be prepared to figure out what will fit you without being able to try anything on. I suggest bringing a roll of measuring tape and being very familiar with your flat bust/waist/hip measurements. All of this can be really overwhelming and there’s no guarantee that you’ll find anything spectacular when you go, but eventually you will and it will be so worth it! I speak from experience!
What are your top 3 thrift finds?
I would have to say (1) a red/white checkered vintage top that I scored while on a trip to Austin last year, (2) a beautiful 60’s plaid shift dress from a local vintage shop, and (3) a floral corduroy vest, also vintage.What are 3 things on your spring must-thrift wish list?I’m dying for something in daisy print. I finally broke down and started adding more florals to my wardrobe, last year. I have seemingly every manner of floral print, except daisy! I’d love to get a chunky, grandpa cardigan in a deep forest green and rich brown. I probably already have way too many cardigan, but I don’t care. Haha. A pair of patent loafers would be rad, too! I have really big feet (like 10.5/11) so I’d probably end up having to shop in the men’s section at a thrift shop to get those shoes.
What are 3 things on your must-thrift wish list?
I’m dying for something in daisy print. I finally broke down and started adding more florals to my wardrobe, last year. I have seemingly every manner of floral print, except daisy! I’d love to get a chunky, grandpa cardigan in a deep forest green and rich brown. I probably already have way too many cardigan, but I don’t care. Haha. A pair of patent loafers would be rad, too! I have really big feet (like 10.5/11) so I’d probably end up having to shop in the men’s section at a thrift shop to get those shoes.
Are there certain items you will not thrift?
I’ll thrift just about anything, really. I’d draw the line at intimate clothing, swimsuits, socks. It just depends on whether they are in their original, sealed packaging.
Describe your style in 3 words.
Eclectic, theatrical, unpredictable.
Who are some of your style inspirations?
Generally speaking, I draw a lot of inspiration from bloggers who have a command of color and patterns. The more unique and unexpected the color/pattern combinations, the more the gears in my head start to turn. Bloggers who have a gift for layering tend to catch my eye, as well. I think I have a natural aptitude for layering, but I’m always interested in learning more about how I can take it to the next level (i.e. playing with fabric lengths and asymmetrical patterns).
How can the WNJ readers keep up with you?
