I sold some of my own clothes recently, and it really got me thinking: why am I buying everything new? The cost difference between buying something new and secondhand is staggering.
The thing is: I’m only willing to do so much digging before the cost/time-benefit ratio feels all wrong. I can enjoy browsing and trying on clothes in shops when time allows, but I’d have to use babysitter hours. I tend to buy online from trusted sources, and try on things at home. But this experience made me feel like I am really wasting so much money by not doing a little digging first.
It was right around this time that thredUP got in touch to see if I’d like to try out their site: “we’re like a consignment store, but simpler.” And it’s been true: After signing up to browse, I’ve entered search terms like Madewell or Zara, Anthropologie or Boden, along with my sizes, and filled my cart a few times now without much trouble. Better yet, I was able to return a few things that didn’t suit me (usually a challenge with buying secondhand). Note: there’s a big discount for readers, below.
In general, I searched for staples: a short-sleeved chambray shirt (Madewell), black cords and a pair of jeans (AG), a loose-fitted tunic (Steven Alan), ankle boots (JCrew). But I also went for this RED Valentino shirtdress that I spotted in the designer section of the site—the “thrill of the new” element for sure—and found myself figuring out ways it might suit me in all seasons. I think it will be great in the summer, with bare legs and sandals. But the large bell-like sleeves are perfect for layering, and I hear dresses over pants is going to be a trend again this year. Which do you like best?
RED Valentino Shirtdress (thredUP)
With Stacked-Heel Sandals (n.d.c.) and Scarf (Madewell from thredUP) // With Black Cord leggings (AG from thredUP), Clutch (Of A Kind), Sunglasses (Old Navy) and sandals (Lucky Brand)
With Striped Shirt (Chance), Suede Ankle Boots (JCrew from thredUP), Biltmore hat and Transport Tote (Madewell) // With Turtleneck, Jeans, Ankle Boots (Madewell), and black purse (Gryson)
I’m not usually one for labels, but I confess that buying something by Valentino (even the RED line) made me start thinking about what other designer labels I might find, the ones that I usually file away under “aspirational.” I searched (and found) some things by Rachel Comey, Loeffler Randal, Steven Alan, and A.P.C.
So now I’m curious: what labels would you first search? Tried-and-true favorites? What brands do you usually file under “aspirational”?
Then check out thredUP: they’re offering 40% off your first order with the code LAYER40 up to $50 to Hither & Thither readers!
P.S. Wearing flares and coatigans.
Thank you to thredUP for sponsoring this post and for the timely introduction to the site! And thank you to Aron for the photos of me. Discount offer expires 2/18/2016.
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