These are a list of my favourite (second hand) things

These are a list of my favourite (second hand) things

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Grab your tote bag and head to the nearest charity shop – this post is all about second hand shopping. Currently expressed through #secondhandseptember we have been experiencing a growing love affair with the resale market. In celebration I thought it would be fun to show some of my most treasured second hand purchases. Environmentally conscious and unique, why not get shopping?

These artsy books

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I promise they weren’t bought solely for the covers. I found these two books at an Oxfam book shop in Belfast and was immediately drawn to them. Both books discuss art, however they each focus on different art mediums (photography/painting and film). I’ve become encapsulated by the variety of books available at this charity shop, making it a regular visit for me.

A classic check skirt

This ‘Bratz’ style skirt was purchased from the resell app Depop. For buying second hand clothes online, Depop has to be one of the best and easiest platforms to use. On the app it’s effortless to search for items and contact sellers. I found this skirt when looking for a tennis skirt and was able to get a great discount on it. Unfortunately this skirt is quite short in length, but otherwise I’m excited to incorporate it into my Autumn wardrobe.

This *stunning* red dress

I thoroughly believe that Cher Horowitz a la ‘Clueless’ would definitely approve of this dress. Also from Depop, this vintage Dorothy Perkins dress is a big highlight of my collection. For a vintage piece, the quality of the chiffon fabric is amazing, and the colour is a romantic red. Although I haven’t worn it to an occasion yet, this dress will soon become my go-to look.

An oversized graphic shirt

FYI: I don’t have a photo of my sweatshirt, so this is from Lyst.

Classic graphic tees and sweatshirts are in high abundance in the resale market. From childhood TV show characters to 90’s bands, there’s a guaranteed graphic t-shirt featuring it. What first attracted me to this sweatshirt on Depop was its pastel cosmic print. Since then, I’ve worn it for many cosy nights in. Originally from the luxury brand ‘Alexa Chung’, I got it for a bargain too.

This 2000’s iconic bag

FYI: I don’t have any photos of my Boxca bag, so this image is of the same style bag from Shpock.

A leather chocolate baguette bag, for £7? Dream come true. I discovered this brown ‘Boxca’ bag at a Maire Curie charity shop this Summer and it hasn’t left my arm since. The quality and condition of the bag compared to it’s low price astonished me. It also fits a surprisingly large amount of items for a small bag. Whilst I really adore it, this bag is my second favourite buy after…

The best ever vintage suit

At the time of 3 AM I came across this two piece suit on Depop – and immediately purchased it. I do not condone impulse buying generally, but I just couldn’t allow myself to turn away this spectacular set. The paired periwinkle blazer and mini skirt not only fit perfectly, but are miraculous in hue, texture and pearly buttons. By miles this is my best fashion purchase of 2020.

Are you a resale fashion fanatic? Have a favoured second hand buy? Share it in the comments below.

Thanks for reading 🙂

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Transform Your Clothes Into Party Ready Outfits

Transform Your Clothes Into Party Ready Outfits

Frost outside, dark evenings and the struggle to get out of your cozy bed in the morning. It’s the middle of December 2019, so you know what this means: New Years parties, family gatherings – and not knowing what to wear for either of them.

Year on year, I tend to not purchase too many new pieces in Winter, so when Christmas arrives and I’m meant to dress up, I struggle to put together cohesive looks. The festive season is also very expensive, between buying gifts, going to Christmas markets, and nights out. To avoid looking fashionably confused but not becoming bankrupt, here’s a few fashion suggestions to brighten up those basic pieces most of us own.

Dress up your jeans with a bustier top

Everyone has at least one pair of jeans – and although denim may not be known for the festive season, that doesn’t mean that you can’t dress it up with a chic bustier top.

Bustier tops are bang on trend this season and add a romantic touch to a simple of jeans. To avoid freezing, layer over a blazer and party the night away. This bustier top is from Boohoo, and is also available in hot pink, neon yellow and white (£12).

Finish the look with square high heels and some statement earrings for effortless class.

Vamp up a midi dress with knee high boots.

This can apply to any dresses or skirts that are long in length. Adding knee high/thigh high boots to a midi dress brings drama, as well as warmth, to an outfit. Does your dress have splits? Wearing thigh high boots underneath will be sure to grab attention and is more edgy than a pair of heels.

These stunning croc leather effect knee high boots are from Missguided, and come in multiple colours (£55).

Complete the outfit with simple jewelry for a paired back, stylish ensemble.

Match a basic top with an eye-catching skirt

If you own a basic t-shirt, wearing it with a patterned skirt can transform it into comfy yet dressy look. An edgy band t-shirt matches well with a feminine skirt and creates visual contrast, for a more interesting outfit.

This skirt I am recommending is one that I own and love. This black floral mini skirt is from Urban Outfitters, and is also available in red. (£36)

To finish the look, add sheer black tights, heed boots and a leather jacket.

Make a little black dress pop, with standout accessories.

It’s time to pull out the black dress that’s been sitting in the back of your wardrobe! To fully embody a 90’s party girl, glam up a little black dress (or any mini dress) with rhinestone tights and thin heels. These tights are from Ebay but are available across the internet. (£4.19)

Simply add dangling rhinestone earrings to complete your debut as a human disco ball. Alternatively, for an extra expensive look, pair the tights with a satin dress, and skinny heels and hair accessories.

Hair and makeup

Almost any outfit can be become your party attire, with the right hair and makeup. A quick search on Youtube or a glance at Instagram will unveil a buffet of inspiration for party looks.

Recently, I have been found some especially dazzling eye looks from Regina @coolgirlswearmugler as well as makeup inspiration from Alexa Demie. A simple rule is to add lots of glitter and just enjoy yourself.