Whitney Nic James

Navigation
  • Home
  • About
  • Style
    • WNJ Style
    • Thrifted Style
    • Personal Style Linkup
    • Thrifty Friends
  • Inspiration
    • #WNJInspired
    • #WNJSocial & Blogging
    • Healthy Living
  • Lifestyle
    • Gift Guides
    • Events
      • Columbia & Baltimore
      • DC & Northern VA
      • Non-Local
    • WNJ Eats
    • WNJ Travels
  • Thrift With Nic!
    • Meetups
    • #TWNTour
  • Contact

Thrifty Friend Feature #16 – Anna of Melodic, Thrifty & Chic

September 4, 2014 by Whitney 8 Comments

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! 🙂

thrifted fashion - feature


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.

Thrifty Thursday - Melodic Thrifty Chic ft.

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!

Thrifty Thursday - Melodic Thrifty Chic

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.

Thrifted Fashion - Melodic Thrifty Chic

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.

Melodic Thrifty Chic - Thrifted Fashion

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?

On the Blog

Instagram

Facebook

Lookbook

Chictopia

Twitter

Filed Under: Thrifty Friends Tagged With: thrifted, thrifting, thrifty features, thrifty friend

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.

Consignment vs. Thrifting

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?

Click To Tweet

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!

rita g's chapter two boutique

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. 😉

thrifting for trends


 

 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!

KEEP UP WITH ME 

 INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | PINTEREST

Filed Under: Style, Thrifty Thursday Tagged With: consignment shopping, thrift shopping, thrifted, thrifting

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. 

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

Click To Tweet

why you should be thrifting

Instagram Pic

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.

Thrifted Vintage Fashion

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

thrifting-for-menswear

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!

KEEP UP WITH ME

Instagram // Twitter // Snapchat // Facebook // Newsletter

 

Filed Under: Style, Thrifty Thursday Tagged With: shopping, thrifting

« Previous Page

Search Blog

Top Categories

More Categories

My Top Posts

  • 7 Bible Verses to Renew and Refresh Your Spirit
  • Life Update | I Have Androgenetic Alopecia
  • 13 Bible Verses to Celebrate Your Birthday
  • #WNJDrives | 2016 Mazda CX-5 Car Review
  • Music | 13 Worship Songs for Comfort & Healing
  • #WNJInspired | Why Your Vision Board isn't Working
  • #WNJPlaylist | The Perfect Playlist for a 30th Birthday
  • Faith | 5 YouVersion Bible Plans Every Woman Needs to Read

Copyright © 2023 · Foodie Child Theme by Shay Bocks · Built on the Genesis Framework · Powered by WordPress