Saturday 7 September 2013

Thrifting Guide

I have said it before and I will say it again: I have amazing friends.  They are so supportive, so I shouldn't be surprised that my first official VV Boutique Style client was my friend Alanna, who requested an appointment once she heard about my biz'ness endeavors.  Earlier today, we hit my favourite VV Boutique for some shopping and style chit chat.  I'm pleased to report that not only was it tons of FUN, we both walked away satisfied!

Alanna's style comfort zone is a neutral palette, which flatters her beautiful green-hazel eyes, blonde hair and skin tone.  She was looking to spice things up a bit and was willing to try everything I put in the cart.  Since I know her, I had a pretty good idea that adding some colour and pattern to her neutral wardrobe would be a great way to infuse fresh style.  Alanna had a time deadline so though we could not hit every section of the store, we browsed through sweaters, pants, skirts, long sleeve tops, scarves and accessories and were able to find a good selection of pieces to try, resulting in complete outfits as well as mix NOT match options for her current wardrobe.  In total, she got:
  • 2 necklaces, 3 bracelets, 3 pairs of earrings, 1 ring
  • 2 scarves
  • 3 tops
  • 2 cardis
  • 1 blazer
  • 1 pair of pants 
Alanna looks incredible!  Need proof?  Here you go!
 The accessories!  
Earthy but still some interesting colours and shapes to add polish to her outfits.
 The scarves!  
Orange/neutral floral and caramel polka dot can be mixed with everything else!
The tops!  
The grey/brown short sleeve GAP sweatshirt (right on trend!) can be dressed up or down, the navy print is an interesting neutral, and the orange print is colourful without being as bold as red or pink, and it can be worn in many ways.
The cardis.  
Belted knit and colourful silk with asymmetrical ribbing.
 
The pants!  And that incredible blazer!  
The blazer is a burnt orange and is a soft knit - easy to wear as an outer layer on warm fall days or as an indoor layer in the coming winter months.

In total, Alanna got 18 pieces for an average cost per piece of $4.60!  Here are some tips from our day:
  • a neutral palette is more interesting when you vary the tone and texture.  Lace, knits, even "exposed" seams like in the sweatshirt add subtle interest.   
  • keep in mind the "rule of 3" - including 3 layers or 3 elements to your upper body makes for a complete look.  Using scarves or accessories for your third element is an easy choice!
  • colour and patterns put the fun into your outfits!
  • just give it a try - you might be surprised!
I had such a good time shopping with Alanna!  If you want to know what she had to say about her experience, click on over to read her testimonial.  And if you are curious about the joys of thrifting and would like your own personal guide, email me!

5 comments:

  1. really nice!

    looks like you guys had a great day and got some FANTASTIC stuff---

    and by her comments i can tell alanna is HAPPY - there is nothing more fun than helping someone feel great about themselves -- that IS what it's all about! (imho)

    you are changing lives .... one closet at a time!

    cheers
    su :)

    ps i still cant figure out HOW you get all those fabulous things---i'm sure i could go thru the aisles seconds b4 you and not even see them....you are the 'gifty thrifty'!

    pps: alanna says she is a plain jane - ya i doubt it!!!!! even tho we cannot see her face, we can she she has a great little figure - i'm sure she is lovely!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Su! Alanna isn't really a "plain Jane" in any way! She's beautiful inside and out!

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  2. Great job, Nicole! You are the Thrifting Queen.

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    1. Thanks Joelle! I guess that means I need a theme song. ;)

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  3. Looks like you guys had a fantastic time! :) Nicely done! I agree with Su - I think you have an eye for picking out awesome finds the rest of us wouldn't see! And yes, I think you definitely need a theme song. ;)

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