After my first foray as a consignment reseller (hosted by the incredible Circular Society!) I made my way into town and donated the items that didn’t sell – only to realize I had accidentally donated pieces from my personal wardrobe! Once the initial panic faded I was able to see the opportunity I’d stumbled into – the chance to rebuild my collection!
As I’ve shared in my extensive “wardrobe & styling” archive, there are silhouettes and color palettes that I return to often, but since turning 31, I’ve been itching to step outside my comfort zone. Through a series of shopping trips and gifted products I’ve been rebuilding my closet, and I think we’re on the right track!
Lacausa Clothing
When LACAUSA Clothing – a brand based in Los Angeles, California – first approached me, I was immediately impressed by their transparency in sharing how and where they source their natural fibers to craft their limited batches. I selected three items: the Isla Skirt in shade Cloud Dancer, the Sofia Slip Tank in shade Whitewash, and the Indio Bodysuit in shade Tar.
As I’m sure you can guess, I instantly loved the bodysuit! Personally, I find a high neckline with a low back to be incredibly chic, but I love the functionality of a bodysuit. And likewise, there is nothing more versatile than a plain white top! So far I’ve only worn the skirt once and since it’s made from a very lightweight cotton, it won’t be making a reappearance until the warm weather returns.
SheCurve
More recently, the brand SheCurve approached me with a similar offer of products in exchange for content. I was able to select two items, and so far one has arrived: the Semi-Transparent Single Seam Fleece Lined Tights. I’ll admit that I was shocked by how much I like these tights! The lining is thick and comfortable, and stops around your ankle which is perfect for layering a frilly sock without making your shoes too tight!
I recently test ran them at the office, and I was impressed by how closely the shade “bronze” mimicked my skin tone!
The RealReal
The RealReal is by no means a new concept but I’ve always been wary of online shopping, especially when shopping resale or consignment. For my first purchase, I bought exclusively from their “on sale” offerings and selected: a new wallet, a pair of jeans, two dresses, a printed trouser, a pencil skirt, and a knit sweater.
The jeans became a favorite through the end of the summer and the beginning of Autumn, and the pencil skirt (by Diane Von Furstenburg) is a classic work option. But – and I’ve since learned my lesson – you cannot shop The RealReal exclusively through the photos as I had done with my first order. Both of the dresses ended up being too formal to wear to work and yet, not formal enough for any event I’ve been to recently. And, sadly, the printed trousers (a vintage pair by Halston) are too large.
Like I said, I learned my lesson, so when I returned to The RealReal I ended up selecting a red and pink tie dye, metallic crop top (yet to be worn), a leather trench coat by Adrienne Landau, and a pair of plaid platform heels by Hill House (both worn below with the SheCurve tights).
I have worn this trench coat nearly every single day since purchasing, and I have a feeling that I’ll be wearing this exact look during holiday season!
Niche Standouts
And sometimes you find utter gems in the most unexpected places; like this satin and lace, leopard print slip dress I found at Target, or these grey jeans I recently bought at Charlotte Russe.
Or my new found addiction: Windsor! I first learned about the store last summer, when I bought the burgundy heeled boots you’ve seen in several of these looks! On my last trip I walked away with several dresses (including this multi-colored striped number) and this fuzzy leopard print hat, which I’ve been wearing nonstop!
Similarly, I’ve recently experienced Primark for the first time and I’m obsessed! On my first visit I found the most chic button down, and most recently walked away with a pair of kitten heels, which are a tad too large, so I’ll be taking them to a cobbler to adjust the ankle strap!
Vepose Shoes
You may or may not know that I’m obsessed with shoes – always have been, and always will be! So when I was approached by Vepose Shoes for my first gifted shoe collaboration, I was thrilled!
When they first approached me over the summer I selected a pair of square toe mules. I wore them on repeat: they’re super comfortable and were the perfect option for work when a black shoe or boot (99% of my shoe-wardrobe) wasn’t appropriate. Not long after, I was able to take part in the recently launched autumn collection, and selected these black boots (I’m actually wearing them today!).
Zara Mini Skirts
Last summer, I was cleaning out my house when I stumbled across an old Zara gift card with a balance! After scrolling through the sale page, I found two mini skirts on sale for $9.98 each: the ZW COLLECTION MINI SKIRT, and the BASIC KNIT MINI SKIRT.
I typically prefer a longer hemline, but these skirts quickly changed my mind! As you can see, I’ve been pairing them with boots and I think it creates a fun silhouette!
Share Your Thoughts Below!
While starting a new journey can always be nerve wracking, I’m enjoying this unique chance to better understand and express myself; and while there are some distinctive differences in my new approach, I’m far from the end of my fashion evolution! Has your sense of style changed throughout your life? Share your experience in the comments below!
I’ll be back next week to recap my recent experience modeling at the Early Rise Fashion Brunch, hosted by Voyage Elite International! In the meantime, get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping with the 2025 We Aim To Slay Holiday Gift Guide!
Have a great rest of your week, and remember to SLAY!
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