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What Comes Around, Goes Around

By: Johanna Laracuente, Wardrobe Stylist & Fashion Expert

Lets face it girls, living a pure organic lifestyle can end up taking the “green” right out of your wallet.  We all need to do our part, but that does not have to mean spending tons of money.  Recycling is a great way to contribute. Paper, bottles, cans, plastic, boyfriends… so why not fashion?  One woman’s rejects are another’s one of a kind find! Second hand, consignment, vintage shops are a great way to access designer or simply stylish, unique gear without breaking the bank and most importantly with minimal impact on the environment.  Ok, I know what you’re thinking: “Sounds great but I never find anything that fits at those stores” and I hear you.  Nobody said it was easy but with patience and a few tips from your favorite curvy fashionista, you will get the most out of your shopping expedition.

First of all patience is key.  Don’t expect to find something every time you go on the hunt, but make sure you dig in through racks, bins and piles so you don’t miss anything.  A must have in your bag: a measuring tape.  When dealing with vintage, size tags are often missing and also sizing was measured differently pending on the period, so it’s hard to know what to expect.  Know your measurements before shopping and don’t be afraid of whipping out the tape to check a garment before you buy if you can’t try it on.  Keep an open mind-see how you can reinvent a piece and make it fit.  If it’s snug, turn it inside out and check the seams to see if there’s any fabric you can let out.  If the bottom of a dress fits but not the top then make into a skirt. Too big?  Get it altered smaller or shorter.  Get a great belt from the bins to cinch it or use the fabric for something else altogether. The possibilities are endless if you have fun with it.  But be careful and wise when handling used merchandise.  Examine it for stains and holes in precarious areas and quality of fabric.  When you take it home, leave it in bag and wash it in hot water if possible or dry clean before use. Bargain fashion= FIERCE, bed bugs in the house… not so much.

Remember, good karma is always in style so pay it forward. Bring your own used goods to a donation center of any non profit organization like Salvation Army or a local church.  If you have any designer goods in the pile, make some extra cash at places like Beacon’s closet, one of Derek’s favorite spots in NYC, where they will either give you cash for your contemporary and vintage goods or a credit in the store. Another great option would be consignment boutiques like INA and Tokyo 7 where you find top of the line designer contemporary and vintage.  Once they sell it you get a check and they get a commission, so it’s a win – win for all! If you prefer to do the hunting online check Ebay, Craigslist and The Clothes Agency.  During weekends check out the flea markets where you can really get your hustle on bargaining prices for an even more BUDGALICIOUS experience.

Enjoy your scavenger hunt and good luck!