Thrifty Thursday Archives - Page 2 of 2

Thrifty Thursday Spotlight – Patrice J. Williams of Looking Fly on a Dime

September 25, 2014 by Whitney 8 Comments

Hello there and happy Thrifty Thursday! Today I’m taking a break from my Oprah’s Life You Want recap to introduce you to one of my favorite thrifty bloggers! Patrice J. Williams is the blogger behind Looking Fly on a Dime and I’ve been a follower since I stared blogging. Her blog covers all things thrift related, as well as affordable and stylish fashion tips and advice. Just a few short weeks ago, Patrice released her thrifting book Looking Fly on a Dime. This book is a great source for both avid thrifters, as well as those who want to thrift but don’t know where or how to start.

When it comes to looking fabulous on a dime, Patrice knows her stuff. It’s been a pleasure following her and I can’t wait to see what’s next for this New York fashionista. Take a look at her thrifty interview below and be sure to grab a copy of her book on Amazon. Enjoy!

ABOUT PATRICE & THRIFTING

1. Name, location and how long have you been thrifting?

I’m Patrice J. Williams and I live in New York, NY. I’ve been thrifting hardcore for 13 or 14 years.

2. Why did you start thrifting?

My Mom says I used to always love the Salvation Army when I was a kid, but my first recollection of thrifting was when I was a sophomore at Temple University. I only started thrift shopping out of necessity. I had an induction ceremony to go to and I needed an outfit but had limited cash, as I was waiting on my work study check. I stumbled upon a thrift store near a fast food restaurant and I haven’t looked back since! I was able to get an entire outfit (button down top and suede skirt) for less than $10.

3. What are 3 of your favorite thrifted items to date?

About 70 to 80% of my wardrobe is thrifted, so it’s hard for me to pick, but some of my top picks are:

– Dsquared Parka for $2. I bought it at a Salvation Army coat sale and the sales associate marked the price down because she thought it was a children’s coat. I loved the coat, but eventually sold it on eBay for close to $500.

-Theory Military Jacket for less than $1. I like going to outlets and stores that have clothes priced by the bound or bag; that’s where you get the real deals. I found a Theory jacket at the Goodwill Outlet and it’s been a constant in my wardrobe for 5 years now. It’s an olive color, which I normally wouldn’t wear, but when something’s so affordable, you can’t help but try something new.

–Vintage Zig Zag Flat Boots. I typically wear heels, but I love a good pair of flat boots that have amazing details. The boots I found were less than $10 and I’ll have to resole them soon, but they always get serious wear every fall and winter. I always get tons of compliments when I wear them. I always tell people that it’s the little details that really elevate your outfit and my zig zag boots are a prime example of that.

ABOUT LOOKING FLY ON A DIME

4. What inspired you to write Looking Fly on a Dime?

I tend to get the same thrift shopping questions over and over (how do you find a thrift shop, how do you clean the clothes, why do I keep striking out, etc.) so it was time to finally write the book on thrift shopping. There are hardcore thrifters, but there are also so many people who just don’t know where to start. In my book, I break it down from how to find a shop, the best strategies while you shop, and how to clean your clothes once you get home.

5. What’s the most important thing you want your readers to get from the book?

After readers finish their copy of Looking Fly on a Dime, I want them to feel empowered to thrift and cultivate their individual sense of style. I’ve worked at fashion magazines for years and I often see women who feel overwhelmed by style. My mission is to remove that intimidation from fashion and make it affordable and accessible for every single woman.

6. What’s next for you? Any T.V. segments, events…we want to know!

I just finished hosting another one of my Ready, Set, Thrift! events in NYC and I’m working on planning some events in other cities for late fall and winter. And of course continuing to promote my book.

7. How can we keep up with you?

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The Fashion of Goodwill – Greater Washington Goodwill Fashion Show 2014

September 19, 2014 by Whitney 14 Comments

Whenever there’s an event involving thrifting, a good cause, and a breath taking venue, I’m there. Thursday nights Greater Washington Goodwill Gala & Fashion Show was exactly that! This is my 3rd year attending and I must say, this year was my favorite! The event took place at the new Marriott Marquis on Massachusetts Avenue in Washington, D.C. – this hotel is simply stunning.

Their theme this year, “Let’s Get to Work” focused on showcasing fashion in the workplace. This theme also celebrated Marriott Marquis Job Training Program. The Goodwill of Greater Washington partnered up with the Marriott Marquis to create this workplace development program which allowed native Washingtonians a chance to work at this brand new hotel. Some of the employees took a walk down the runway that night – they were filled with excitement and a lot of spunk. Of course, they were dressed in head to toe Goodwill. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a shot of them walking, but check out this site for a glimpse.

Photo Credit

BEFORE THE SHOW

I was thrilled to attend the event with my D.C. event partner in crime, Vivi of Heart, Print & Style. She and I have attended this event together for the last 3 years. Both avid thrifters, we marveled at the items available for sale Goodwill Popup Shop. I especially enjoyed the pretty jewelry and hats, but was most smitten with a particular vibrant and stylish lady. She was so cute and her vintage beaded jacket was divine! When asked to take a picture, she smiled and said, “I’m all thrifted up, dear!” How cute? 🙂

As far as my outfit for this occasion, I went for a chic yet thrifty look. I paired my Nordstrom jumpsuit with my thrifted jacket/blazer. I’ve been dying to wear it and I felt what better event than the Goodwill Fashion Show to showcase this thrifted beauty?! I wasn’t the only fashionable blogger there. Check out my fashionable blogging buddies in the pics below!

Goodwill Popup Shop

Jacket/Blazer: Goodwill, Annandale Locaton // Jumpsuit: Sejour, Nordstrom (Same) // Heels: DKNY, DSW (Similar) // Clutch: Fly By Night Boutique // Earrings & Watch: Thrifted, 2nd Avenue

BLOGGER LOVE: The Style Medic // Heart, Print & Style // What I Wore: Tip to Toe // Lapis of Luxury

THE FASHION OF GOODWILL

True to the with the “Let’s Get to Work” theme, the Goodwill models all dressed as if they were going to work! Some fashion choices were more conservative than others, but I liked the mixture. Some outfits were more casual workdays, while others were outfits you’d wear to a work related evening event. Stylist Tu-anh did a great job styling. Below are some of my favorites looks.

So tell me, have you ever been to a Goodwill fashion show? What do you think about the “Let’s Get to Work” fashion? Let me know!

It’s always a pleasure to attend the Greater Washington Goodwill Fashion show. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for next year. Thanks for reading, and have a wonderful weekend!

P.S. Thanks to my hubby for these wonderful pictures! 🙂

*****

Linkups: Thursday Favorites, Tres-Chic Thursday, WIW, Thrifters Anynomous

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Thrifty Thursday: Thrift vs. Consignment

August 7, 2014 by Whitney 16 Comments

Hey there! Today I want to talk about thrift vs. consignment. While I’ve been more partial to thrifting, I must say that consignment shopping has been a fun adventure lately. As the Consignment Thread writer for DomiCile Magazine, I’ve been trekking across the DMV area looking for the best spots for consignment shopping. Some people have asked what’s the difference is between the two (thrifting & consignment shopping), so today I’m going to share my thoughts.

THRIFT VS. CONSIGNMENT – UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE

Consignment Shops/Boutiques

People bring their (gently) used items to consignment shops to sell. Once their item(s) is inspected/evaluated, it’s up to the store to determine if that item can be sold at their location. Once that is determined, the item is marked and placed on the sales floor to be sold on behalf of the consigner. Each consignment shop has their own system as to how they “watch” the consigners items. In the end, the consignment shop takes a percentage of the sale and then pays the consigner the remainder. If the item(s) doesn’t sell the consignment shop returns the item to the consigner.

Thrift vs. Consignment…what’s the difference?

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Thrift Stores

Thrift stores are filled with donated items like shoes, clothes, jewelry, dishes, furniture, etc. Most thrift stores are charity and non-profit based. (i.e. Goodwill, Salvation Army, etc.) Thrift store prices vary, but most times the prices are very affordable. Depending on the thrift store, the items will be sized and organized by section (i.e. pants, blouses, handbags, kitchenware, etc.). Some thrift stores are not as organized as others, so the finding what you’re looking for may require more time.

THRIFT VS. CONSIGNMENT – WHY I LIKE BOTH

Why do I like consignment shopping?

When consignment shopping, I know I’m going to find quality items that have little to no wear and tear. Am I going to pay for that? Yes. But certain thing like authentic handbags and shoes, exquisite and rare jewelry finds or authentic paintings from a certain time period I don’t mind shelling out more cash for. I also like the attention I receive when consignment shopping. Most consignment shops are small boutiques, especially those that carry higher end items. So you get that one on one shopping experience; the staff helps you find exactly what you’re looking for, or they point you in the right direction. The consignment shops I’ve visited like Rita G’s or Style Finds have staff members who know their inventory like it’s their own. In some cases, the owner is on the sales floor helping customers find the perfect item. I love that!

Earrings: Rita G’s Chapter Two Boutique

Why do I like thrift shopping?

Thrifting is all about the thrill of the hunt. To be quite honest, you may or may not find what you’re looking for the 1st time. But along the way, you find some pretty cool stuff! If you’re an avid thrifter then you know which stores to go to find what you need. Unlike consignment shops the prices are more affordable. However, the items may require a bit of TLC due to their less than perfect condition. Some of my favorite things to thrift are leather and winter jackets/wraps, handbags, and “on trend items” like kimonos. I’ve also found that the clothing sizes range wider while thrifting than I while shopping consignment stores. Something to consider. 😉

So tell me, what do you think about Thrift vs. Consignment? Which “method” of shopping do you prefer? Let me know!

Thanks for reading another one of my Thrifty Thursday posts and I hope you have a better understanding of the whole thrift vs. consignment thing. 😉 If you have more questions, feel free to contact me. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe….XO!

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11 Reasons Why You Should Be Thrifting

July 24, 2014 by Whitney 12 Comments

Happy Thrifty Thursday, friends! I want to jump right in today, so I’ll cut to the chase. Yes, I love to thrift and you know it. Of course, thrifting saves money and thrifting can also be a joyous “treasure hunt”, once you get the hang of it. But why should YOU start, if you haven’t already? Glad you asked! 😉 Here are 11 Reasons Why You Should Be Thrifting.

1. Create Your Own Style | Thrift stores have a plethora of items from all decades/eras. Rummaging through and finding different prints, materials, and designers to fall in love with is the start to creating your own (unique) personal style.

2. QUALITY Materials and Brands | Unlike a lot of trendy clothing stores and brands, thrift stores have a great selection of clothes made of materials like silk, cashmere, and sturdy cotton that will indeed last a long time. I’ve stumbled upon brands and designers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Escada, Brooks Brothers and Corbin – all high quality and at unbelievable price points.

3. Home Decor GALORE. If you’re looking to furnish or decorate your new or current home, thrift stores are gold mines for plates, placements, rugs, lamps, etc. I found a set of dishes (including salt and pepper shakers) for $8 – all of the dishes were intact!

11 reasons you should be thrifting! #thriftwithnic

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4. You’re Doing a Good Deed | Did you know that Salvation Army stores donate their profits to certain charities? According to the Goodwill of Greater Washington‘s mission statement, they’re dedicated to “transforming lives and communities through the power of education and employment.”

5. Great Hobby for Collectors | If you’re into collecting items like old albums, jewelry, ties, etc. thrift stores are the place for you – It’s literally a collectors paradise!

6. Vintage is Always in Style | Vintage clothing options are plentiful at most thrift stores. Certain vintage items are true statement items that will never go out of style. Trust me, every closet needs a few statement pieces.

7. Book Lover’s Dream | If you’re an avid reader, a lot of thrift stores have really amazing collections of older novels, how-to books, cookbooks, children’s books and more. Whatever your interest, I’m sure you can find a book about it!

8. Good Deals Every Time You Shop | You don’t have to wait for a holiday or use a special coupon. More than likely any day you deiced to go thrifting, you’re going to find unbeatable deals! **Most thrift stores have certain markdown/sale days too – just ask! **

9. Dress the Man in Your Life | Men’s clothes are usually more expensive than women’s clothes. Thrift stores seem to always have a variety of suits, ties, coats and dress shoes for men. My hubby found a 2 piece suit at the Goodwill in Annandale, VA for $20. The suit had never been worn (still had tags) and was in impeccable condition. #WINNING

10. Buy and Resell | It’s no secret that a lot of online entrepreneurs use the thrift store to purchase valuable items at a discount price to resell. Places like eBay and Etsy are great sites to give reselling certain thrifted items a try.

11.It’s Fun | Just trust me on this one!

So tell me, have I convinced you to start thrifitng yet? 😉 What’s the latest item(s) you’ve found while thrifting? Let me know!

As always, thanks for reading and commenting. Until next time, be blessed and stay safe…XO!

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2014 Goodwill Runway Show – Delaware

March 6, 2014 by Whitney 13 Comments

Happy Thrifty Thursday! Today I want to share a visual recap of the 2014 Goodwill Runway Show, hosted by the Goodwill of Delaware & Delaware County. Last Friday, they presented their 4th annual runway show at the Sheraton South in Wilmington, DE. Fellow blogger and friend, Antionette (DE Divah Deals) invited hubby and I to come so of course, we jumped at the opportunity! Anything involving thrifting giving back and the Goodwill, we’re there! Check out the visual recap of the event blow! 🙂

*Runway Show*

*Pop Up Shop Goodies*

*After the Show*

: GORGEOUS detailing on this thrifted gown!

: BLM Girls! (Antionette)

All in all, the show was a lot of fun. All the models had great energy, the styling was on point, and the items for sale were fantastic! I actually purchased quite a few things – I’ll be sharing those next week in a video. 🙂 Thanks again to Antionette for the invite. I can’t wait to attend next year!

So tell me, have you ever been to a Goodwill Runway Show? Were there any looks from the show that you liked? Let me know!

I hope you enjoy the post and the pics. Be sure to check out Antionette’s recap too! Until tomorrow, be blessed & stay safe…XO!

P.S. Don’t forget to grab your FREE ticket to my 1st in person thrifting event, HERE!

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*Linkups: Lovely Thursdays & Style Elixir*

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