From the Runway to Your Closet For Less

FROM THE RUNWAY TO YOUR CLOSET BY LALITA CHEMELLO For Less!

Do you find yourself obsessing over the outfits in episodes of Making the Cut, Project Runway or America’s Next Top Model? Do you still buy the occasional issue of Vogue or Elle and mark pages, in hopes that one day you can wear luxurious items like the ones shown in the elaborately constructed ads and campaigns? I am here to tell you, it is not impossible. And your fashion-seeking self can obtain realistic labels, at an insanely discounted price, that’s also great for the environment. Giving back to the Earth, while treating yourself? Where do I sign up? As someone admittedly weak to the constructs of fashion and style—I have learned to be creative and a little more friendly to my wallet over the years. The pieces I have found on my crafty searches, are all thrifted! These sites I’ve put to use over the years work for every budget, nearly every age AND every size. So, my gift to you this holiday season, and the fashion-lovers in your life, are these internet finds for the best pieces, for the best prices.

Rent The Runway

www.renttherunway.com

Dress like a celeb for an evening, without the guilt of a several thousand dollar dress sitting in your closet (looking at you, wedding dresses…). You can rent current season designer dresses, many for under $100. They even allow you to pick two sizes, so you’re likely not in a pinch if you’re between sizes or not sure how something will fit! The site’s already-worn pieces are also available for sale after they are retired! AND, if you want to switch up your look monthly, they have a subscription service that rotates anywhere from eight to 16 pieces a month (regular pricing is $135 - $199 a month). Some of us…easily spend that in a month. Imagine wearing designer clothing everyday for that price?

The Real Real

www.therealreal.com

One of my favorite pieces in my closet, an Alexander McQueen pencil skirt, is from here. My latest purchase was a pair of Michael Kors over-the-knee boots for $60 this season. You can find things at a variety of prices, and everything is checked for authenticity. Not only that, but they explain the condition, so you’re not purchasing something too worn, if you don’t want. Honestly though, if I could find a thoroughly worn piece of Chanel for a decent price, I might have to pick it up. Another bonus? If you’re done with a piece, you can sell it with them! You get extra credits if you keep the money as credits for the site. So, everyone wins as someone else can enjoy it, and you can go on to something new.

ThredUp

www.ThredUp.com

This is the best of all worlds, and they sell clothes for Women, Kids and Maternity! You can find anything from Prada (for real) to J. Crew. Rent the Runway is also a partner, and sells their retired pieces on this site. While it is a lot to scroll through at times, you can customize your searches to make it easier. Want a long sleeve chunky sweater from a designer label in an XS? You can find it. You can also save searches and get updates when new items are found.

eBay

www.eBay.com

This one takes some talent and knowledge to find designer pieces. I actually have a BCBG dress I’ve kept for years found on eBay, as well as an older Coach purse. While you can find designer handbags here, you need to do a little research to know how to spot an authentic piece. Personally, I avoid handbags that don’t show the inside of the bag, or lack a lot of photos, which helps you to take a look and verify its authenticity for yourself.

Other Options

This is by no means an exhaustive list of places you can go to treat yourself while sticking to your budget. Poshmark and Mercari are a couple other great options to check out. If you still prefer trying before buying, check out local consignment shops or national chains like Style Encore and Plato’s Closet. Happy shopping!