Be frugal, look fabulous!

Welcome to my blog!
This experiment is to see whether I can find looks directly out of the Peruvian Connection catalog (my absolute favorite) by shopping at thrift stores and garages sales. My goal is to put together an elegant, interesting, and flattering wardrobe--but by only spending about 10% or less of the new clothes' cost.

But why Peruvian Connection?
Because every outfit in the catalog uses my favorite things: belts, boots, bags, jewelry, and pieces that you can mix and match. I'll be able to emulate their style by putting together items that I find along the way. Also, their style is timeless and almost vintage-looking. How could I go wrong with a company with the tagline of 'Artisan clothing for nomads and romantics'? I'm both at heart!

Why buy second-hand?
Buying second-hand clothing is sustainable and economical. My money goes to charity or directly to individuals, my purchases do not require the use of additional resources, and at this stage in my life I cannot afford to buy such quality clothes at retail prices. However, someday when I can afford to buy new clothes, I wish to be mindful of where my money is going. Higher end retailers such as Peruvian Connection may be more expensive, but their artisans earn a living wage and the materials are environmentally friendly. I want to get in the habit of buying responsibly.

The rules for this experiment:
I'm looking for quality garments made of materials that Peruvian Connection commonly uses: cotton (pima if possible), alpaca, merino wool, leather, and other furs such as angora, mohair, and cashmere. I aim to avoid acrylics and other man-made materials because they wear out quickly. The end result of this blog will be a wardrobe that will last for years and never go out of style.

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Something a bit different: Hat edition

I've decided to spice up this blog a bit by adding other bargains I've found over the months. These items might not be straight out of the Peruvian Connection catalog, but they're still fabulous--and unbelievably cheap!

I've said before that I want to become a hat person. This is much easier in the colder months, when covering your head is a necessity. So here are my other hat finds:

This is (un)officially the softest hat in the world. It's 100% cashmere, at least two-ply, designed by Cole Haan. It sits a bit high on the head and looks reminiscent of a fur hat. The hat would have been AT LEAST $95 new, but I only paid $3.99. Also, the hat is in as-new condition.

This hand-embroidered beanie is 42% wool, 31% acrylic, and 27% polyester, made in India. It is designed by Element. I paid only $1 for this hat at the Temple House, and I can easily fold it and put it in my purse on cold days.

This 100% wool cloche is so comfy on, and matches my J. Crew peacoat perfectly. Unfortunately, I don't know the designer, but I do know I only paid $1.99 at Goodwill. The applique flower is hand-sewn, with sequins, beads, and faux pearls.

I think I'll do this 'something a bit different' entries regularly, just so I can share my other bargains with you all. Hope you enjoy them!
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