The Outfit Repeater

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Thrifting on a Small Budget? Discover Creative Ways to Find FREE Clothes

Where To Find Free Clothes

Getting clothes for free seems too good to be true but it’s the real deal!

For some people, thrifting for free is not just a choice but a necessity.

It could be due to a tight budget, a preference for frugal living, or a wish to live a more eco-friendly life.

There are many reasons why someone would look for free clothes and accessories.

No matter your motivation, thrifting for free is a smart and eco-friendly way to refresh your wardrobe without breaking the bank.

So let’s explore how to find free clothes that match your style and budget!

Finding Free Clothes in Real Life

Community Closets

Many places hosts regular community clothing giveaways. These might be housed at churches or another central meeting place. Ask around or search for “free stores” online in your city.

Giveaway Piles

If you live in a dorm, apartment, or other shared space; chances are there is a common area where people can leave items they want to donate. This might be a great way to get to know your neighbors and make a friend who matches you size and style!

Free Boxes at Yard Sales

When you’re out at yard sales, don’t overlook free boxes on the curb. You never know what you’ll find!

Finding Free Clothes Online

The internet has become an invaluable tool to finding anything you could possibly think of. This is especially helpful if you live in a small town without a lot of resources, or certain items are out of your price range and you need to do some deal hunting.

Get Social

Buy Nothing Facebook Groups

If you have a Facebook account, then Buy Nothing Facebook groups are a very direct way of connecting people in your area who are giving away free items. Join the group nearest to you and keep an eye on the posts to stake claim to their goods up for grabs.

Website

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace allows you to filter for free items, including clothing, being given away by people in your local area

Website

Nuw App

The popular subscription clothing rental service website, Nuuly, is getting in on the clothing swap action. Now you can upload clothes, earn “coins”, and swap with other members on the platform. There is a small transaction fee of .99 cents so it’s not entirely free, but it’s still a great option.

Website

Lucky Sweater App

Lucky Sweater is different than the other options in this list as they’re heavily focused on the sustainability aspect of trading fashion.

Anyone can hop on the platform and start swapping but they’re more selective about which clothes get circulated. This has it’s pros and cons for the average user (ie: if you mainly buy from mass retailers) but has great benefits on the planet.

I also highly recommend subscribing to their newsletter as they’re very dedicated to cultivating community and launching new features to help members on their platform. I’ve learned a lot from them!

Website

Other Websites

Freecycle

While not a dedicated clothing app, Freecycle is an online community where people give away unwanted items for free, including clothes. You can join local Freecycle groups to find free clothing giveaways in your area.

Website

Craigslist Free Section

Check the “Free Stuff” section on Craigslist regularly for people giving away clothes and other items at no cost. You can also post a wanted ad looking for free clothes!

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More Creative Ways to Find Free Clothes

Clothing Swap Party

Get a group of friends together and host a clothing swap! Everyone brings along a couple bags or boxes of unwanted clothes and accessories. Lay them out and make it a party with snacks, drinks, and of course a fashion show.

You could even choose to donate the leftover items and keep the sustainability movement going!

Ask Your Friends

If you just need one or two important items (say a wedding dress guest or a job interview outfit) ask around to your friends if they have anything they’re getting rid of or have something you could borrow.

Local Organizations or Churches

Reach out to local organizations or churches for more help specific to your area.

Some organizations may have free vouchers to use at a local thrift store and, like I mentioned above, others may also have regular clothing giveaways you could participate in.

In Clothes-ing

Remember, embracing frugality and eco-friendliness doesn’t mean sacrificing style. With a little effort and an open mind, you can create a wardrobe that’s both wallet-friendly and fashionable.

I hope this list of resources helps you find free clothes! I have other options available to help you learn about more about where to find free clothes in this past blog post.

Good luck and happy thrifting!

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June 24, 2024
Putting The YOU in Uniform Dressing
Repeat After… You?

What’s your outfit uniform?

I recently analyzed over 100 outfits from my blog archive, and to my surprise, a pattern emerged!

I found myself gravitating towards outfits that included skirts, palazzo pants, and floral print.

It’s funny considering how much I love fashion, but apparently, even I fall into a comfort zone.

Why Should You Be an Outfit Repeater?

People choose outfit uniforms for many reasons whether it’s budgetary constraints, to reduce decision fatigue, or simply being unable to break long-standing habits.

Having a go-to outfit formula takes the guesswork out of getting dressed and streamlines your get-ready routine.

Are Some People Better Outfit Repeaters?

While some tend to literally repeat the same outfit formula day after day, others often repeat colors (i.e. all black or “purple” ladies) or have a go-to silhouette that they don’t stray away from.

Unfortunately, women especially are often held to a higher standard according to social norms when it comes to outfit variety. Men seem to get a pass for repeating outfits, while women might face social commentary.

There are surely double standards at play when it comes to judgment around repeated outfits. A person in a simple uniform may project an image of concentration and focus on more important matters to some. Others, however, may perceive the same person as lazy or lacking stylistic creativity. These are outdated notions we need to overcome.

How To Build Your Own Outfit Uniform

So, how do you build your own outfit uniform and stick to it despite potential negativity? Here are some tips:
- Lifestyle First: Choose pieces that fit seamlessly into your daily routine.
- Confidence is Key: Select items that make you feel amazing and radiate self-assurance.
- Find a Signature: Find simple pieces with unique details like statement sleeves, eye-catching buttons, or timeless distressing. These can become your signature elements.
Having some personal touches will prevent you from feeling like you’re wearing someone else’s prescribed outfit.

How To Embrace Being an Outfit Repeater

Once you have a uniform, are you stuck in it forever? I think those in private schools or certain professions with strict dress codes can attest that uniforms get old, but if YOU get to choose the uniform, then you get to be very flexible.

Having control allows you to evolve the uniform to match your taste and mindset. You’re never truly “breaking” it because you decide what it means.

Your uniform should serve you, not the other way around. Evolve it as your taste and needs change over time. That’s what separates an inspired personal style from an obligatory one.

How To Respond To Outfit Repeater Shamers

Let’s talk about those awkward moments when someone calls you out for wearing the same outfit. Here are some witty (and truthful) responses you can have in your back pocket:
- “Yes, and.. ?”
- “Thanks for noticing!”
- “Yup, you caught me!”
- “It makes getting ready easier for me.”
- And my favorite “Maybe I’m an outfit repeater but you’re an outfit remember and that’s just as pathetic!” – Lizzie McGuire
You could even ask them why it bothers them so much. The key is to not let their comments make you self-conscious about your choices.

Confessions of an Outfit Repeater

Everyone has their own reason to be an outfit repeater, and it might be worth it to try it for yourself – maybe for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Having a uniform takes out the daily stress of getting dressed and lets you focus your energy elsewhere.

While it may go against societal norms for women, choosing an outfit uniform can be an empowering form of self-expression. Don’t let outdated social conventions hold you back from finding what works best for YOU!

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June 10, 2024
Must-Have Apps for Finding the Best Thrift Store Deals Online

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Shop Smarter Online, Not Harder

Online thrift stores and independent resellers are popping up every day online! This is great news for eco-conscious shoppers and budget-savvy fashionistas alike.

With so many pre-loved goods to discover, navigating the digital thrifting landscape can feel overwhelming. Where do you even begin?

Luckily, I’m here to take some of the guesswork out of shopping secondhand online and help you get a good deal on your favorite thrift site.

This post will introduce you to my must-have apps that will transform you into a thrifting pro, helping you score the best deals on everything from designer finds to everyday essentials!

Let’s dive into the world of apps that will revolutionize your online thrifting experience!

Beni: Your Secondhand Shopping Sidekick

What is it? Beni is a browser extension and phone app that will turn anyone into a sharp online thrift shopper.

Why should you use it? Beni finds you the best pre-loved options when you’re shopping online! Just add the extension to your Chrome browser, scroll through your favorite clothing website, and Beni will automatically detect your search and find a similar option secondhand. Or open up the app and directly search for a specific item. Easy peasy!

Where to find it: Website | Browser Extension

Gem: The Google of Vintage

What is it? Gem is a website that will help you quickly find really good vintage and secondhand items online!

Why should you use it? Gem lets you search everything vintage and secondhand – Etsy, Poshmark, independent stores – all at once. It’s like the Google of thrift shopping, and it’s going to save you SO much time. Just type in your search, narrow down by filters, and enjoy the hunt!

Where to find it: Website | App

Cirkular: AI-Powered Online Thrifting

What is it? Cirkular is a new platform to help you locate vintage and secondhand online with both text and picture searches.

Why should you use it? Cirkular is your ultimate shopping BFF! Filter for your favorite brands or let AI work its magic to find similar styles across different thrifty platforms. Feeling inspired by a specific look? Say goodbye to text search and give visual search a try with your inspo picture! You’ll be amazed at what this website can help you discover!

Where to find it: Website

Honey: For Coupons and More!

What is it? Honey is a browser extension that automatically applies coupons on 30,000+ sites with one click and helps you earn cashback on the purchases you’re making.

Why should you use it? Honey is a hassle-free way to earn points from your purchases (some secondhand sites included are eBay, ThredUp, Thrift Books & Thrift Vintage Fashion), then cash out your points for PayPal money. Add items to your wishlist and automatically get notified when the price drops into your budget!

Where to find it: Website

RetailMeNot: The Original Deal Hunter

What is it? RetailMeNot is your one-stop shop for coupons, cash back offers, and hidden deals from tons of stores and restaurants.

Why should you use it? RetailMeNot is the original deal hunter. With features similar to Honey; you can sign-up, search for promo codes (or have them automatically applied with the browser!), earn cashback and feel good about online shopping. It’s clutch for keeping up with coupons available for ThredUp!

Where to find it: Website

The Future of Thrift is Digital

With these handy apps and online platforms at your fingertips, online thrifting has never been easier or more rewarding! So, ditch the guilt of fast fashion and embrace the sustainable, budget-friendly world of pre-loved clothing.

Did I miss any of your favorite secondhand shopping resources from this list? Share them with me in the comments!

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May 13, 2024
How To Ethically Refresh Your Wardrobe When Your Style Gets Stale
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What To Do When Your Style Changes

Wouldn’t it be amazing if our wardrobes stayed perfectly tailored to our lives forever?

In reality, our styles evolve along with our experiences. We cycle through different phases, and our clothes need to adapt accordingly.

Are you currently experiencing a major life change or simply feeling like your wardrobe doesn’t reflect your personal style anymore?

This post will guide you through navigating an identity shift (fashionably and sustainably!) on a budget.

Here’s what you need to know to revamp your wardrobe while staying kind to your wallet and the planet.

When Your Style Changes

When your style changes, it can be tempting to get rid of everything in favor of wearing a new identity. Before making big decisions, try a closet audit! You might find hidden gems or items that can be upcycled to match your changing style.

To prevent potential regrets, take a look at these items you might want to hold onto:
- Classic pieces. This could be solid colored tops, well-fitting jeans, tailer pieces.
- Sentimental items. Remember that dress you saved up your entire first paycheck for? Items like that are irreplaceable and worth hanging on to. If it meant something important to you at one point, it will probably mean something to you in the future.
- Garments in good condition. A piece might be in really great shape and have potential to be styled to fit your new wardrobe, or consider upcycling it with some RIT Dye or simple sewing skills to give it a new life.
After giving everything a careful evaluation, it’s ok to get rid of items in your closet that are no longer serving you.

Organize a clothing swap with friends or donate your items to charities that accept a wide variety of styles and sizes. You can also try selling higher-end pieces online or through consignment shops. Even some clothing recycling programs accept gently-used garments you don’t want anymore!

When Your Size Changes

More often than not, you’re going to go through periods of life where your size changes—sometimes drastically—and you’ll be very frustrated when you look at the clothes from your old life.

When this happens, your instinct might be to donate everything that no longer serves you but I would recommend taking a look at what can be saved, put-aside, or totally discarded:
- Save items that can be resized. It’s important to try to hold on to as much as you can to save yourself from the hassle of starting your closet over. Inspect the items in your closet and see if items have a seam that can be let out (or easily made smaller!), or could possibly be made to fit better by cutting them off. (ie: a dress too tight in the hips can be snipped into a blouse!)
- Keep items with elastic. Stretchy items are great for style transitions! If you don’t have already have a stock pile of them in your wardrobe, now would be the time to thrift some to have on hand in case you ever need them.
- Hold on to sentimental pieces. Contrary to popular advice, I think it’s a good idea to hold on to a few sentimental pieces. But instead of taking up closet space, store them somewhere special, like a keepsake box. Detachment from the expectation of wearing them again is key. Think of them as memories you can look back on, not aspirational items you’ll wear again someday.
This life transition might stir up emotions, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to rediscover yourself! It’s a chance to let go of pieces you never got around to wearing, or to finally part ways with worn-out items that you didn’t have the heart to get rid of sooner.

When Your Size & Style Change At The Same Time

When your size and style change at the same time, it will require a more comprehensive wardrobe overhaul. Here’s how to navigate it sustainably!

Following the above advice, look out for pieces that have styling potential to accommodate your new look. This might be pieces you can belt, tuck, pin, or adjust without any sewing skills.

Then, look through your closet for items that should be altered through more permanent modifications like resizing a whole garment or DIYing some flair or adding distressing.

If you don’t have these skills to pull these off, get in touch with an expert or a good friend to help made these changes!

Final Thoughts on How To Refresh Your Wardrobe Sustainably

Once you’ve exhausted going through your closet, keep things sustainable and budget friendly by adding back pieces from thrift stores, consignment shops, online resale marketplaces (I love ThredUp and Poshmark!) , or hosting a clothing swap in your community.

If a big event is coming up, you could try renting unique pieces for special occasions instead of buying new. Or borrow something from a friend!

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I’d love to hear what you learned from this post and if you have anything else to add to it. Be sure to share it with a friend and Pin it to reference later!

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April 30, 2024
Want To Sell Clothes Online? Read This First

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Why It’s Not So Easy To Sell Clothes Online

We’ve all had that moment when we clean out our closets and think about taking everything to a thrift store. But what if you could actually make some money from it or even start a new side hustle?

Selling clothes online may seem daunting with all the different apps and platforms, not to mention the scammers. However, it can be a rewarding experience. I’ve sold items from my closet over the years with varying success. While I’m not a pro seller, I love thrifting and want to share my perspective as a beginner online seller!

Best For Beginners To Sell Clothes Online

Poshmark is a peer-to-peer marketplace for new and secondhand styles.

Poshmark is recommended for beginners because it’s easy to get started and offers a wide range of categories beyond just clothes.

Pros: Poshmark is available as an app and a website. You can complete all the steps right in the app from taking and editing photos, listing items, and printing a mailing label. The interface is very user-friendly and easy to navigate. Listings stay live forever with no fees to post or relist.

Cons: For all sales under $15, Poshmark takes a flat commission of $2.95. For sales of $15 or more, Poshmark’s commission is 20%. There is no private messaging feature if you need more contact during a sale. Sellers don’t have very robust profiles where you can learn more about them, this can make earning trust with your customers difficult.

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READ MORE: These Poshmark Selling Tips Are Too Good To Keep To Myself

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READ MORE: An Honest, Unpaid Poshmark Review + Selling Tips

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Best For Consigning Clothes

ThredUp is an online consignment and thrift store where you can buy and sell secondhand clothes.

Not everyone has time to list clothes online for sale. That’s where consignment stores come in handy! ThredUp is a great choice because they send you a bag, you fill it with clothes, and then you can mail it back to earn some cash. It’s super easy!

Pros: Anyone in the US can request a bag, fill it up with on-trend and seasonal items, and then mail it back with USPS. ThredUp is pretty open to what they accept. If an item is not accepted, ThredUp can take care of donating it for you on your behalf instead of sending it back to you.

Cons: Items are listed for consignment so you only get paid when they sell. Payouts range between 35 cents and $2.45, including designer and NWT items. Waiting for items to sell can take a few months, and then an additional week or two for each payout.

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READ MORE: Selling Clothes Online to thredUP: Is It Worth It?

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Best For Handmade and Vintage Clothes

Etsy is a global online marketplace for selling, buying, and collecting unique items.

If you’ve ever searched online for a gift for someone who seems to have everything, you’ve probably checked out Etsy. It’s a great place to discover a wide variety of items that you won’t find anywhere else.

Pros: Etsy is available as an app and website with a simple interface for listing and communicating with customers. Etsy gives you a storefront that you can fully customize and include information about your business.

Cons: Many Etsy sellers complain that their listings are only seen if they pay for ads. And then there’s a listing fee of $0.20 for each item you post, plus an extra 3.5 percent on top of that. Which means you don’t get to keep every dollar you make. Not to mention the fees for credit card payments or PayPal. The secondhand market is very saturated and competitive.

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READ MORE: What Selling on Etsy for 5 Years Has Taught Me

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Best for Unique Clothes

Buffalo Exchange is a “buy, sell, trade” chain of stores in the US.

Another great way to consign from home is the Buffalo Exchange “Sell By Mail” program. Buffalo Exchange is a chain of stores in the US where you can sell and shop. It stands out because it offers an online program, unlike many other consignment stores.

Pros: Anyone can easily request a bag and have it shipped to their house to fill up and send back via USPS. The process is rather quick with payments happening promptly.

Cons: Your items aren’t listed on a website but rather sent to a specific store to be resold. They’re much picker than a program like ThredUp with most items not be accepting. The payout is low, but if you opt for store credit, you’ll get almost double the amount. (Which isn’t helpful if you don’t live near a Buffalo Exchange) They’ve vague about telling you what they bought.

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READ MORE: Is The Buffalo Exchange “Sell By Mail” Program Too Good To Be True?

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More Resell Platforms To Consider

Other platforms to consider where you can sell your clothes online.

This post doesn’t even begin to cover the different platforms or methods of resale available to you. It just outlines a few options that I’ve personally tried in the past and have some experience speaking about.

You could consider other peer-to-peer apps like Depop, Mercari, eBay, Vinted, Carousell, or Tradesy.

You could take the process into your own hands and post sale listings on Instagram or Facebook. (Following the proper guidelines, of course.)

You can consign with other big names like TheRealReal.

You could even host live sales through District, Whatnot, TikTok, or CommentSold.

Whatever you decide, remember to read the fine print on the platform, keep an eye on your finances, pace yourself to avoid burning out fast, and enjoy the journey of learning.

We may not all be cut out to sell clothes online, but there’s no harm in giving it a try to see if you enjoy it!

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February 23, 2024
The Outfit Repeater Hall of Fame: The Top 10 Most Repeated Pieces in My Closet
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The Outfit Repeater Hall of Fame

Ever wondered what makes a piece of clothing truly timeless?

Since I’m coming up on my 9th bloggiversary on January 9th, I’m revealing The Outfit Repeater Hall of Fame – a round-up of the top 10 most repeated pieces in my closet.

After 9 fabulous years of blogging, certain pieces have truly stood the test of time in my closet. These aren’t just clothes; they’re the MVPs, the go-to classics, the trusty sidekicks that have transformed my outfits into LEWKS!

In this post, I’m going to explore each piece, share their stories, and uncover why they’ve become my go-to closet staples. (Excluding denim, outerwear, and accessories. Because that’s too easy!)

Now let’s take a walk down memory lane and look back at my top 10 most repeated pieces and why they work!

Iconic Piece: Daisy Print Top

Coming in last place with 5 wears (on my blog.. countless more in real life) is this super cute daisy print top!

Wear it came from: Bought at a garage sale in 2008 for about .50¢

What I love about it: I was attracted to this top when I was still just a teenager because of the throwback daisy print. I was also plus-size back then and loved the comfy cut on the top.

Fun fact: The top is true ’90s era from Maurices! That’s significant because I’ve been an employee of Maurices since 2018. Full circle moment!

Iconic Piece: Red Floral Skirt

Clocking in at 6 wears on the blog, this vintage red floral skirt has staying power!

Wear it came from: I believe it was a Salvation Army thrift store around 2013. I think it was half-price at $1! (My memory is foggy though so don’t quote me)

What I love about it: I’m actually surprised that this skirt shows up on my top 10 list because the elastic is completely gone from the waistband so I hate trying to get it on. But the bright red flowers have a way of matching so much in my closet that I can forgive it.

Fun fact: The first photo was submitted to Lucky Magazine in 2016 and was chosen to be on the website… THEN IN THE SEPTEMBER PRINT ISSUE! I still have multiple copies of the magazine to remember that time I was a little bit famous.

Iconic Piece: Rainbow Striped Skirt

I’m sure no one is surprised to see this rainbow striped skirt on my top 10 list! It’s been worn a total of 6 times on my blog.

Wear it came from: I bought this skirt for $15 on thredUP back in 2020.

What I love about it: What’s NOT to love about it?!

Fun fact: I had this exact skirt on a Pinterest board a few years prior to the purchase. It was just an outfit I thought was cool then I somehow manifested it into my life!

Iconic Piece: Blue Vintage Jumpsuit

This jumpsuit has been styled on my blog a whopping 7 times!

Wear it came from: I found this blue jumpsuit in the basement of a thrift store for $1 back in 2017.

What I love about it: This jumpsuit is one of a kind with its bright color and hundreds of pockets. And the fabric is very forgiving throughout my many weight fluctuations over the years!

Fun fact: I’ve shared the long version on my TikTok of how I bought this skirt, which includes how Pat Benatar was involved in the purchase.

Iconic Piece: Pink Vintage Floral Blazer

At 8 wears, this pink floral blazer comes in at the halfway point!

Wear it came from: I vaguely remember buying it from a small thrift store in 2013. Like most things on this list, I don’t think I spent more than $1 on it.

What I love about it: This blazer is a pastel ’80s dream! I always feel like I’m in a John Hughes movie when I wear it. Plus it looks just as good styled in feminine looks as it does with dark grungy pieces.

Fun fact: This purchase was heavily inspired by my favorite movie, Pretty in Pink, and the constant comparisons I get to Molly Ringwald.

Iconic Piece: Blue Vintage Polka Dot Shorts

This list is starting to get serious! These blue polka dot shorts have been worn 10 times on my blog.

Wear they came from: If I had to guess, it was another small thrift store for about $1 back in 2012/2013. It’s been too long!

What I love about it: These shorts are the most versatile color, have the most perfect Swiss dot pattern, and the loose cut paired with an elastic waistband makes them fit at literally every size I’ve been from a 4-12!

Fun fact: I thrifted a twin to these several years ago – they were mint green – and I wore them a couple of times but the color just didn’t live up to this magnificent navy blue so I donated them. But I really do wish I had them in other jewel-toned hues!

Iconic Piece: Black and White Striped Skirt

Another piece in the 10-timer club is this vintage black and white striped skirt.

Wear it came from: My best guess is another small thrift store for $1 sometime between 2012 and 2013!

What I love about it: I am such a striped girlie and this black-and-white one is right on the mark to me.

Fun fact: I actually hate midi-length skirts and have been meaning to shorten this one for years. But after 12 years in my closet and countless outfits, why fix what ain’t broken?!

Iconic Piece: Red Palazzo Pants

At 10 wears, these red palazzo pants are number 3 on my top 10 list!

Wear they came from: A Goodwill in 2020 for around $5.

What I love about it: I put these pants on my thrifting wishlist in 2018 and searched forever! I finally found them and haven’t seen another pair since. I think they were meant to be mine!

Fun fact: I think most people would be surprised to know these pants are Shein brand. I don’t support that brand for ethical reasons but these pants were too good to pass up. And now they’re kind of my signature, so….

Iconic Piece: Polka Dot Skater Skirt

Coming in at number 2 on my list is this polka dot skater skirt with 12 wears!

Wear it came from: I remember this one! I bought it at a St. Vincent’s de Paul for about $6. I didn’t want to pay that much but it still had the new tag from K-Mart in the 1990s!

What I love about it: This skirt is the perfect length and cut for me. I rarely find skirts like this so, when I do, I HAVE to buy them!

Fun fact: This still had their original tag on it so I took it off and added it to my vintage tag collection. Does anyone else have one of those?!

Iconic Piece: Purple Printed Skirt

My number one most repeated piece is… this vintage purple print skirt with 15 wears!

Wear it came from: I bought it at a Salvation Army for about $1 back in 2013.

What I love about it: As I mentioned above, it’s tough for me to find skirts in the exact length and style that I love. This vintage pattern is fantastic and matches so much in my closet!

Fun fact: When I saw this skirt at the thrift store, I thought it was really artsy and much cooler than who I was. I figured I’d wear it once or twice, feel like an imposter, and then donate it. Now it’s my most worn skirt EVER!

Tips for Becoming a (Outfit) Repeater Offender

Creating this list was very eye-opening for me. I didn’t realize some items had been documented online so many times, even though they are beloved pieces in my closet.

What I learned from this round-up that I think are some important takeaways:
- Vintage clothes are made to last
- Sometimes the most inexpensive items are the most well-loved
- Choosing pieces that have a classic pattern or match the color palette of your closet can go a long way
- Have fun in your closet!
Thank you so much for reading this post and enjoying all my looks from the past 9 years as The Outfit Repeater! As always, please be sure to Pin your favorite looks from this post and share the outfit repeater message with all your friends!

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January 8, 2024
Pass or Fail? An Honest Review of My 2023 Style Goals (and What I’m Doing Different This Year)
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Setting New Year Style Goals

I’m sure I’m not the only one who loves the fresh start that a new year gives us.

It’s a great time to do some self-reflection, create goals, or begin a new habit in your life.

For me, my focus is always on the functionality of my closet and being intentional about what I bring into it; thus I set style goals for myself.

I love setting style goals every year and sharing them with you. You can get inspired by my 2022 style goals or 2023 style goals here.

So speaking of my 2023 goals, how did those go? In this post, I’m going to look back and recap how they went and set new style goals for 2024!

Let’s dive in!

2023 Style Goals Recap

While I did recap my style goals during the half-way mark on Instagram, things did change a little bit after that. Here’s an overview of what happened in 2023!

Style Goal Update: Buy More Pink

PASS! Thanks to the Barbie movie, pink was in abundance in retail and thrift stores. I did great finding new pieces to add to my collection!

Style Goal Update: Invest in Better Quality Jeans and Shoes

PASS! I did better with buying jeans, than shoes, but I still accomplished both goals. While I’d rather thrift jeans, it can be tough to find just the right fit.

Most of the new jeans came from Maurices (where I work as a social media manager!) so getting an associate discount on brand new jeans that I could order for my exact body type was great!

Style Goal Update: Shop From Small/Indie Brands

PASS-ish? While I did make a few purchases from smaller stores, I mostly ended up MODELING for the stores! That was a first for me and lots of fun.

However, I did shop at a lot of new thrift stores and antique malls that were off the beaten path. Does that count?!

Style Goal Update: Buy a Little Black Dress

FAIL! This has been a years-long search and I have yet to find exactly what I have in my head. So the search continues into 2024!

Style Goal Update: Reduce My Sock Collection

FAIL! My sock collection actually grew larger this year. Oops!

Setting New Style Goals for 2024

And now what we’ve all been waiting for… here are the goals I have set for my style and closet in 2024!

New Style Goal: Buy Colored Jeans

I’m not talking about 2000’s skinny jeans, I’m talking about current cuts and silhouettes in funky colors. Think something like pink flares or yellow wide leg jeans. I’ve come close to a couple of pairs in the last year but the fit was always just a little bit off.

New Style Goal: Be More Creative With My Scarf Collection

I have a beautiful (and bountiful!) scarf collection and I want to be more intentional about adding scarves to my looks. This is definitely something I can work on right away while it’s still Winter!

New Style Goal: DIY More Stuff

I’m no stranger to customizing my clothes but I mainly stick with easy projects like cropping a shirt with scissors… or cutting jeans with scissors.. mostly stuff with scissors. lol

I am vowing to do more with my clothes in 2024 like rhinestones, painting, and maybe even Rit Dye!

New Style Goal: Grow My Hat Collection

I love wearing hats and I love the little collection of berets, bucket hats, and wide-brim fedoras that I own. I would love to continue to find more colors and styles to fit my little noggin!

Tips For Setting Your Own Style Goals

Are you feeling inspired to set your own style goals but need a little push? Here’s what I would recommend!
- Reflect on what you did last year. Could you update that goal to fit where you are in your life right now?
- Tell your goals to a friend. I think one of the best ways to manifest your dream closet/life/whatever is to talk about it out loud so the universe can hear exactly what you want. I hope this post does that for me!
- Challenge yourself! Push your boundaries with a new color palette, experimenting with patterns, or trying a trend you love.
Wear To Go From Here

I’d like to hear about your style goals! What are you hoping to add more of to your closet, give away, or change? Let’s know more about it in the comments!

Please be sure to Pin this post or share it with a friend who could use some inspiration!

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January 2, 2024
5 Fashion Changes I’ve Made For My Disability

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Dressing with a Disability

Fashion is more than just clothing, it’s a way to express oneself.

But finding the right clothes that are both stylish and functional can be a challenge, especially for those with disabilities.

Over the years, I have made several changes to my wardrobe to make it more suitable for my disability, and today I want to share some of these changes with you.

Hopefully, you’ll relate to something in this post and it will spark an idea!

Updating My Wardrobe For My Disability

An invisible illness like mine can creep up on you slowly so the changes in your closet happen gradually.

A big question I’ve asked my fellow disabled friends is how do you know when to make these changes? It’s different for everyone and basically you just know. For me, a symptom would become overwhelming and I realized it was time to change how I did things!

First up for me, I swapped out my constricting pieces for ones that had elasticity and ease. This was an obvious choice as my gastroparesis causes regular stomach issues like pain and nausea. When those symptoms hit, I want to be wearing comfy clothes that won’t exacerbate my misery.

Not to mention I’ve gone through some pretty extreme weight fluctuations so having a wardrobe that accommodates size changes (without an additional shopping trip) is very important.

This ties in perfectly with the need to choose clothes with low-maintenance care/wash instructions. I have chronic fatigue (thanks to POTS & EDS!) so I have limited capacity for activities like laundry or steaming. Having clothes that are easy to care for saves a lot of spoons!

TIP: My favorite materials to buy for low-maintenance care are cotton, spandex/lycra, lyocell, and jersey. Of course, this will be specific to your needs if you have sensory issues that exclude certain fabrics!

Specific Products I’ve Bought For My Disability

When vertigo became a regular symptom for me a few years ago, I searched high and low for a walking cane that was age-appropriate and FUN. Most mobility aids are tailored to older folks with modest styles.

And it seemed like every time I found something, the dimensions didn’t fit my needs. I finally struck out at Walmart, of all places, with a polka dot cane.

To further make it feel like an extension of my style, I customized it with shiny gem stickers, a keychain, and I’ll soon be adding a custom pink base!

Small touches like that to your mobility aid help you feel a bit like yourself and can fight the insecurity you feel when using one for the first time.

Another item that comes highly recommended to many people is compression gear! This comes in handy for many things like painful bulging veins and circulation issues.

My first foray into this was with full-length compression stockings (without the toes, just my preference) but I’ve since explored other options like abdominal compression bodysuits (per updated research coming out for POTS) and buying athletic leggings which provide a similar level of compression with slightly more comfort, are more affordable, and readily available with better styles to choose from.

Changing How I Get Dressed

The final way I’ve helped myself that anyone can do is to simplify my closet!

My cognitive impairments include decision fatigue so making choices easier for myself is major. I’ve written about the closet changes I’ve made in a previous post so I won’t get into too many details here.

But the big things to consider are:

1) Do your clothes match your current lifestyle?

2) Do you love and wear everything in your closet or is there stuff you can donate?

3) What clothes would make your life easier? (Re-read this post for ideas! haha)

Fashion For All

I hope these tips have been helpful to you and encourage you to find ways to make your wardrobe work for you, no matter your abilities. Remember, fashion is for everyone!

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November 6, 2023
My Thrifted Pee-wee Herman Halloween Costume

My Pee-Wee Herman Halloween Costume

I know you are but what am I? I’m Pee-wee Herman!

Pee-wee Herman is an instantly recognizable character with his gray suit, red bowtie, and boyish looks.

I grew up watching him and have always carried a bit of him with me as an adult. Whether it was a clever comeback or a funny face. No doubt he had a big impact on my life!

When I read of his passing earlier this year, I felt like I lost a friend.

To honor Pee-wee, I wanted to dress up as him for Halloween this year. Like many of the costumes I’ve been sharing, it’s been on my list for YEARS to do it.

What happened next was nothing short of MAGIC!

How My Pee-wee Halloween Costume Went Viral

Pee-wee Herman has a photo gallery on his website devoted to costumes created by his fans and I always wanted to join the page. I just never felt like I had the right pieces in my closet and have searched high and low at thrift stores for the perfect ensemble.

I dug through my closet and put together an outfit that resembled his infamous look. Everything was thrifted except for the white sneakers, and oh how I wish they were the actual white loafers!

Because of its inaccurate recreation, I only planned to share it here on my blog. But, just for kicks, I submitted it to the Pee-wee Herman legacy page on Facebook.

I had forgotten about it and then woke up one morning and my picture was all over Facebook and Instagram! The legacy page had chosen my costume and story to feature for all to see.

I was basically walking on air the whole day. It felt unreal!

If you’re here because of that viral post, thank you. Getting shared was an unexpected surprise and the positive feedback has been incredible!

The Legacy Of Pee-wee Herman

I’ll leave this blog post with the words I shared in my story –

Life’s not about being perfect, it’s just about showing up and being weird!

If you have a Pee-wee memory or favorite quote, I would love it if you shared it with me in the comments! Thanks for checking out my Halloween costume! I’ll let you let me let you go now!

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October 26, 2023
The Ultimate ’00s Icon: A Lizzie McGuire Halloween Costume

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Lizzie McGuire Halloween Costume

Hey now, hey now, this Lizzie McGuire Halloween costume is what dreams are made of!

Maybe I’m an Outfit Repeater, but you’re an outfit remember.. and that’s just as pathetic!

After all these years in the blogging space, I’m finally dressing up as my blog’s namesake Lizzie McGuire!

If you’re thinking of dressing up as this Y2k icon, then keep reading for all the details.

How I Dressed As Lizzie McGuire

If you believe that I had a picture perfect plan. Then I’ve got you fooled! I only did the best I can when it came to dressing as Lizzie McGuire for Halloween!

Putting together all the pieces of this costume required many, many thrift stores and reaching out to friends for favors.

Ultimately, everything came together and I actually ended up with TWO outfits. Of course, I’m sharing them both because they feature these fabulous floral pants from my friend’s shop, Vintage Emporium.

And my entire blog is about re-wearing your closet so this costume couldn’t be more fitting!

What I Wore As Lizzie McGuire

Every piece of my outfit has a little backstory but I’ll try to keep it brief!

I started out by thrifting a bunch of blouses from the 2000s but was growing concerned that I didn’t have the pants yet and wasn’t sure what color they would be if I found them. Pants are a tough fit for me so I was literally trying on anything I could find and coming up with nothing. I was ready to buy the first pair that actually fit!

The joke was on me… I had a collection of red tops and then found these pants and they were BLUE!

So I scrapped all the tops and browsed thredUP for a suitable shirt and found two great options.

The shoes and sunglasses were very easy to score on Poshmark and even better since I had credit to spend!

All of the jewelry is from my own collection (both bracelets were gifts from friends some time ago!).

And if the wig looks familiar, it’s a Hannah Montana wig I bought in 2009 for $10 at Claire’s in a mall. It’s definitely seen better days but I made it work to the best of my ability!

Tips For Dressing Up As Lizzie McGuire For Halloween

What I love most about this costume compared to most of the others I’ve shared on here, is that I could see myself re-wearing each piece from this costume. It’s bold, colorful, and truly a reflection of my personal style!

If you’re searching for a costume that won’t get worn once and then stashed away, consider a Halloween costume like Lizzie McGuire or another character you love.

Clothing from the 2000s is having a big moment right now and you can find originals at thrift stores or dupes at places like Target or fast fashion places. Definitely have fun with it!

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Please be sure to Pin this post to reference later, and tag me on Instagram so I can see your version of Lizzie McGuire!

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October 19, 2023