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Fashion How-to: One thrift store tee; eight recycled outfits

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In honor of our upcoming September Back to School and Fashion issue, GRIDtern Kelly Clayton dove into the exciting world of thrift store finds.

Why is thrifting great? Purchasing previously worn clothing keeps discarded fashions out of the landfill, and does not contribute to the wasteful, mass-produced practices of the mainstream fashion world. Conveniently, turning to the fashions of decades past is extremely popular right now. Women are wearing high-wasted skirts with peep toed shoes (thank you 1950) and men are hitting the street in form-fitting jeans, cardigans, and Chuck Taylor All-stars (1980s mixed with 1960s). 

Shopping at consignment or thrift stores is a great way to have a variety of era-appropriate fashions at your disposal in one place. Although it can take multiple trips and a trained eye, finding wearable gems at your local shops is both doable and satisfying.

Philly AIDS Thrift (PAT) — which recenlty moved to a larger location — is one of Philadelphia’s go to spots to transform someone else’s trash into your treasure. The non-profit donates all its profits to local organizations involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and offerings run the gamut — shoes, bags, men’s and women’s clothing, children’s clothing, books, electronics, accessories, furniture and much more. The shop also takes donated plain shirts (left) and gives them new life with the simple addition of a recycling logo. After the jump, a how-to on taking one of PAT’s re-vamped tees and transforming it into a wardrobe staple appropriate for any occasion.

Classic prep– Stay cool and it keep it classy during the day.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vintage all the way- For a more 1940s look, wear these shorts high waisted and pin on a timeless brooch.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Layered Look- This is great if you need to take off/put on layers throughout the day! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At the Docks– Perfect for a day by the water under the blazing summer sun.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jersey Shore– A light cotton skirt is ideal for a bathing suit cover up. Pair with this recycled paper tote bag and you’re ready for a day at the beach. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Day to Night – This hand-sewn pastel pencil skirt can be worn many ways, and when paired with this electric green cardigan and a big statement necklace it will work during the day, or at night for a dinner out.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City Fashionista– Nothing is more casual cool than a good jean jacket. Even in the summer a jean jacket can transform any look. When paired with this pencil skirt and Converse All Stars it is fashionable comfort at its best.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Office– These pin-striped pants with a camel blazer is a great combination for the office in the summertime. 

Have a favorite outfit? Comment below and let us know which is your fav! Want to know more about the clothes you see! Just comment or visit us on facebook and write on our wall to find out more! 

0 Comments

  1. I love this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love the fresh spin on eco-fashion!

    I want to see more of this!!!!!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂

  2. This is fantastic! My mom and I have always been into thrifting and going to yard sales! It's a great way to save money, save the planet, and spend time with one another! I would love to see more blogs about thrifting! Maybe even a feature about the Salvation Army? Not only can you find amazing clothes from all fashion eras, but the money goes to a great cause! 🙂

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