Wednesday, August 24, 2011

WOTS: I Like Those Stylish Clothes You Wear (feature)...

-John Fairchild

When I think of style, I think of someone who's obviously fashionable. One who isn't afraid to take risks, experiment with color, and ultimately one who can put one helluva spin on the latest (or maybe even the 'not so latest') trends in order to make them their own. I think of one who does the unexpected yet remains classic and timeless in their effort to do so. I think of someone who's FLY. Someone who always owns the room, no matter what they wear.

Today, I'm thinking of KayCee.

Everyone say hello to her.



Tell us a little more about yourself and your mission as a blogger?
Hello I am Kaycee of TwoStylishKays. My career is corporate training, but my passion is fashion.  So when I take off my trainer hat, I delve into the world of fashion as a personal stylist. I love helping women feel confident about their image and personal style. My personal style blog celebrates my love of fashion, thrift shopping and inspiring women to look stylish all the time. I believe that personal style is a look that is all your own. It’s not about how much money you spend, but how you wear your clothes.

What inspired you to begin thrifting?
It was my mother who nurtured my "thrifty shopping habit". Being a single parent, she worked two jobs just to make ends meet and thrifting was one way she could stretch a dollar. So she introduced me to secondhand stores at an early age. Since there was a social stigma attached to thrifting, I would only run in to buy black pants to wear to my job as a cashier at Popeye's.  But those quick trips turned in weekly visits as I realized the joy of thrifting and learned how to create fashionable wardrobes on a modest budget. Today, thrift shopping has a new meaning in my life:  It’s therapeutic! It’s the thrill of the hunt! It’s doing a good deed!! Oh and I save a lot of money too!!

How often do you thrift and do you set a budget for yourself?
I go thrifting at least once a week. My budget is not the driving force behind my purchases. I go shopping with a list, so I only but things that I truly want. When I make a purchase it’s an item that I need, can wear immediately and will love for years to come.

Your style is very classic and clean. Do you shop for particular labels/brands when thrifting? 
I heart brands like Michael Kors, Zara, Club Monaco, Banana Republic because of their quality and timeless styles. I avoid fast label brands like H&M, F21, Old Navy and any Target brands because the quality usually isn't worth the thrift store price tag.  Plus, I can pay the same price for the item at an end of year or clearance sale. If I don’t recognize a label/brand, I look at the quality based on the material, how the item is sewn and of course the fit. The best racks to shop first are the dress, skirt, blazer and blouse sections.



What are a few of your favorite and most valuable thrifted items?
I have too many to name. But one of my favorite thrifted pieces is a Bill Blass navy silk chiffon dress. I found at Goodwill. There was little hanger appeal, but I loved the color and fabric. So I tried it on and fell in love. When I began inspecting the dress, looking for flaws and such, I noticed the Bill Blass label!  



What are some good pointers that you've learned while thrifting?
These are tips to follow to have a great thrifting experience:  
1. Shop alone or with someone who enjoys thrifting. Thrifting is not for the faint of heart and requires a great deal of patience. 
2. Know that a thrift store is not the mall.  Go in without expectations and don't give up if you do not find specifically what you are looking for.
3. Many stores do not have dressing rooms; therefore, wear leggings and a fitted top to try on clothes in the aisle.
4. Become a frequent shopper.  Associates may become familiar with your style and point you in the direction of great finds. 
5. Remember the accessories.  Thrift stores are a great place to find silk scarves, vintage jewelry, and belts.



Who are some other 'thrifty' bloggers that you enjoy visiting?  

Shana of ColorBlind
Stacey Kay of GoodWill Huntingg 
Inez of Style Chic 360

How do you define style?

Post Title from Ride With Me by Nelly




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