28 Jan Thrifty Threads – School Girl Chic

The weather on the east coast is pretty brutal. Apartment dwelling means I don’t have to shovel but with more than a foot of snow, my dilemma is what to wear? I attended a birthday party yesterday and I didn’t have to dress up but I didn’t want to step in the room wearing clunky snow boots either.

I pulled a few wardrobe staples {blazer and pleated skirt} from my closet and wore them in a different way.

My striped J. Crew blazer has seen plenty of wear but this time I wanted to button and belt it, something I’d normally never do. I hiked my skirt up a bit so the proportions with the blazer didn’t look too off.

Since footwear was a major issue {due to massive snow piles}, I threw on my tall Payless boots. They have a slight heel {because Patrice doesn’t party in flats, gasp!}, but the rubber sole kept me firmly planted on the ground.

It wasn’t until I did a final look in the mirror that I realized my whole look (minus accessories) was thrifted.

Click more to see the price breakdown and read up on a thrift shopping tidbit.

{belted and buttoned pinstripe blazer}

{the marbled tights kept me warm and the color complimented the blazer}

{a charm necklace makes everything better}

Breakdown:
Blazer: J. Crew, thrifted for $1
Tank: thrifted for less than $1
Belt: thrifted for $1
Skirt: Gap, thrifted for $1
Boots: Payless, $30
Necklace, tights and ring: $10 from a fashion sale at work

Thrift Tip:

When I purchased the skirt it was about an inch or so too big around the waist, but that was easily fixable. If you find an item that’s slightly larger or longer than you’d like, don’t be afraid to grab it. For a quick fix, go with a safety pin for a gaping waist or use tape to shorten a hem. When you have time, have your tailor take it in for a few dollars. Don’t be afraid to make small alterations for a piece you really like.

Week 21 of my Thrifty Threads 365 challenge (a full year where I only buy second-hand clothing) is down. Only 31 more weeks to go!

Photos: Amber J. of The Fab Life Project