Secondhandstyle | Sarah London Style

SIGNATURE STYLE : What are you wishing to wear this Season ?

Finally, after what seems like the longest Autumn Winter, I’m really excited about the “new season”, let alone what’s on it’s style wishlist 😂 Spring has sprung here in Melbourne and I’m not sure if it’s my age or that my own signature style has been fine tuning itself this year, but this “new season” I’m looking at how I add to my wardrobe with fresh eyes. Previously I’d be checking in on the various fashion weeks, scrolling style inspo and checking out the new trends from my fave brands and stores, all with the intention of staying up to date and on top of my style game. So this month’s SIGNATURE STYLE will be a little bit different from me. I’m not sure how Cindy or Kim will approach it, but I’m sure, you’ll be heading over to their pages once you’ve read mine. And if by any chance, you think you’d like to comment, simply press the title of this post now and you will be redirected to the same page with commenting options at the end ☺️

I think it’s probably a combination of both midlife and loving what I have already (plus my current secondhand shopping habits) that leads my “new season” wishlist on a slightly different path. And to be honest, it’s really quite freeing to no longer feel the pull the “trends” once had over me. It’s like I’ve finally found my own groove when it comes to style… and now instead of coveting garments seasonally, my focus is on fine tuning my overall personal style whatever the time of year!

And the way I’ll be doing that now in Spring (which is my “new season”), as well as over the coming Summer, Autumn and Winter 😉 is to lean towards a more tonal look. What I’m after is less contrast between the layers of colour I wear. I find it such an ageless and timeless look on others that I’ve found myself wanting a bit of that too! So over the last two seasons I played with this idea with what I had in my wardrobe. And I’ve found a simple long coat the key! Adding it in a similar tone to what’s underneath has me moving in the right direction. Although not strictly “tonal”, my looks below mix different colours, but of a similar muted tone. Btw, I’m wearing a preloved olive trench that I found earlier in the year, and it’s the inspo for more to come 😉 Here is a similar one, in a brighter green. And another in sage. Olive boots and belt are on my list for next AW 😉

“Tonal” usually means wearing the same block colour head toe. But it can be in a pattern, which I think adds interest and personality. As does texture 😉 and here I am wearing my 2022 AW Coat, which despite being a bit of cheap fast fashion, has proved an absolute winner!

And while I was playing with the tonal look, I wrote the SS blog on linen, which then lead me on the search for a linen trench, similar in shape to the olive coat above, but in a natural colour, to wear over all my cream linen and cotton pieces. Below is the one I found secondhand on Depop. It’s a great addition to my curated closet for Spring and definitely more the tonal look I’m leaning towards. This is a similar one, as is this but both being new, have a much heftier price tag than the $95 I paid.

And since I love both these lighter trenchs so much, I am keeping my eyes peeled for similar coats in colours I wear, like Caramel and Dusty Rose. They are the best layering garments for the transitional weather, and because I’m not shopping trending colours, I can wait until they show up on sale or secondhand. And guess what? One just did… and a steal for a worn twice price of $85 on Depop 😉 It’s from the Veronika Maine 2018 Spring Collection, but it will prove timeless in my wardrobe! There is a similar one here and here.

Dressing tonally is something that can be achieved quite easily all year around. And achieving it in my case is about establishing your most “love to wear” colours (AW: Cream, Brown, Tan, Burnt Orange, Olive Green, Teal and Navy Blue , and SS: Cream, Brown, Tan, Olive, Teal and Dusty Rose for me 😉) and then slowly building up over time layers and textured garments in them from head to toe. I’ve mentioned SS coats today, but think wool ones for AW. Similarly, tees/singlets/blouses for SS, turtlenecks/Jumpers for AW. You get the idea…

And talking about toes…..if I hadn’t already purchased these sneakers in Winter, I would have added them to my “new season” wishlist. It’s another way I’m fine tuning my style. While I do like to wear and rewear the timeless garments that I have, I do find sneakers/trainers one of those items that date (and dirty) quite quickly. So I find a new pair can freshen up an older outfit so easily! Investing in a pair (or two) a year is something I’ve learnt to do. And for 2022 The New Balance 327 is it. It comes in so many colour options, that I’m sure there is one for you. I actually bought these, about a month apart. The first pair were so comfy I knew I had to have another 😂

And I have found they add a cool casual vibe to so much of what I like to wear, whether it be tonal or muted tones 😉

And that ladies, is what I’m wishing for this SS season! A more tonal look. I hope it inspires you to think about styling a few garments you have tonally to see if you like it. And perhaps even find some lovely new pieces to help you this season. I can’t wait to show you what I come up with on IG over the coming months! And since I know a lot of you are heading into AW, here’s a few more tonal outfits I’ve been playing with:

And these Navy boots (or similar) are on my AW23 wishlist too 😉

Sarah xx

CINDY HATTERSLEY DESIGN

NORTHERN CAL STYLE

SECOND HAND STYLE: The joy in finding a new colour and how best to wear it 💕

Posted on August 24 by sarahlondonstyle

Welcome to another blog post on Secondhand Style. If you’re new, thank you for making the time to be here, if not, welcome back. And if you do think you’d like to comment, simply press the title of this blog now and it will redirect you to the same page with commenting options at the end.

In my last SAVVY STYLE blog, I covered the joy of curating my closet, and in doing so, I discussed colour. And one thing I’ve found, is that when you do know what colours you prefer on you, it makes it so much easier to add to your wardrobe sustainably. And for most of this year, I have stuck to a few familiar ones and built up an incredibly versatile wardrobe doing so. But what I have started to do, is seek secondhand a colour that is relatively new to me. And today I’ll show you what I’ve found in it so far and how I’ve styled and even upstyled it to work with my wardrobe. 😉

And that “new colour” for me, is a Pink! In particular, a shade I would call a dusty rose. What would you call it ? I’m referring to the first one in the line up above. I only became aware that it suited me after I had my colours analysed last year, and since then I always keep my eyes open on secondhand sites and in stores for it. That’s just one of the great things about shopping secondhand, all colours are available! (As opposed to what’s trending in retail) Brilliant! This pink is from my Muted Autumn palette. I primarily wear a Muted or Warm Autumn, but tend to stick with the safe browns and greens I know, so I really am stepping out of my comfort zone with this one… and it’s been a learning experience as I’m about to show you.

Some of you may remember that earlier this year, I found this Catherine Murphy dress secondhand. I wrote about it and some other 2022 treasures here. It is what started me off on this particular colour tangent and since then I’ve been keeping my eyes open for the same/similar shade in a style that suits.

So when I saw the dress below at my local Red Cross Op shop NWT for $25 I thought I’d found it and snapped it up.

Only to discover, that without a small print on it, I feel the block colour overbearing 😳. It wears me! And with this sheen, even more !! Needless to say, I was a bit surprised and disappointed. And since I have, over the last year, carefully curated every item in my closet to suit me, I am very aware that I only want to hold onto garments and accessories I am absolutely in love with on me. So after a bit of thought, I brought out an old pair of pants (and some scissors) and thought, because the dress has such a fabulous collar and cuff detail, would it make the perfect blouse for them? It would certainly break the vast block of “pink” in half and add some interest with the pattern of the pants to the outfit.

Et voilà…. what do you think? I think it’s really smart! And so much nicer on me.

The joy in finding a new colour and how best to wear it 🙏🏻.

And why do I pay so much attention to a detail like this ? Other than to look good in it 😂 …because ultimately my aim with anything I buy to wear is to feel good, in fact so good that I keep wearing and rewearing it, making my sustainable SECONDHAND STYLE even more sustainable 😉

Sarah xx

BTW… watch out for Jane @thesmallfabricofmylife and I next month on Instagram as we’ve signed up for SECONDHAND SEPTEMBER!

SECONDHAND STYLE: My new “feel good” #curateandcreatechallenge 😉

Posted on June 29 by sarahlondonstyle

Welcome back to another blog post on SECONDHAND STYLE! I’m so happy you’re here 😊 Jane is taking the Summer off from blogging to spend time with her family, but be sure to continue following her style journey on The Small Fabric of My Life on INSTAGRAM. I know I will be! Which leaves me to write about what I’m wearing… and this coming month I feel like a new style challenge. One that feels good by encouraging us to wear what we have and if we do add new….. purchasing garments that compliment what we have (perhaps from a wishlist…see below 😉) and from secondhand stores! It can seriously “look good and feel good”… as I’m about to show you 😉

Which is why I’ve created the #curateandcreatechallenge. I’m committing to do it for July and would love you to join me. If you’ve been following for a while, you’ll know all about my “curate your closet” philosophy. If not, it’s a simple system (see pic above) for creating the wardrobe of your dreams 😉 So using garments from in it, simply create an outfit making sure you add a little secondhand. That’s all the challenge requires… and then post a pic of what you are wearing (flat lays are fine too) onto Instagram. I’m hoping it encourages this platform and IG to mindfully share the rewearing and restyling of existing clothes (instead of always thinking we have to share new) and if something is, make it from what’s already is existence and buy it secondhand instead. Yay for secondhand style!

Wearing what you have is a huge tick for sustainability ✅ ! And with the cost of living rising, economically it’s never made better sense ✅. But believe me when I say that from a “personal style” point of view, wearing what you have and love (since it’s from your curated closet ) and combining it with mindfully shopping secondhand to enhance it is an off the charts “feel good factor” ✅✅✅!!! Why? Because not only are you helping yourself, the planet, a charity or an individual’s livelihood wearing/shopping like this, you are also reaching for what you intuitively love without any marketing/brand influence … which in turn establishes/enhances your own genuine style … which in turn switches on / turns up your creativity … which in a fashion world that likes to tell us what to wear, you are doing the opposite! YOU are simply wearing what you want to wear! YOU ARE DOING YOU 😍 and that is always the ultimate feel good 😉

Let’s take a look at what I’m talking about…

Below are 6 outfits I’ve created mixing existing garments with secondhand. In pic 1, the snake necklace is the only thrifted item. Pic 2 it’s the denim shirt and suede boots. Pic 3 the trench, dress, fur and boots (same as pic2). In pic 4, the turtle neck and bag, pic 5 the brooch, blazer and bag. And finally in picture 6 the blazer (same as pic 5) and boots (same as pic 2 and 3). So you see, I’m rewearing and restyling what I have (in which the garments range from 1 month to 15 years old), with the inclusion of pieces I’ve found secondhand. Head to toe my own wabi sabi style!

And that cropped pic at the top, here’s a full shot. I’m wearing my wardrobe with a new “secondhand” faux fur gilet (from the kids section at Salvos 😳), and it’s what you’ll see on my IG grid today 😊

So thats it, welcome to my #curateandcreatechallenge ! I’m excited, I hope you are too! But most of all I’m feeling really good about it, which is what our Style is about after all 😉

Sarah xx

SECONDHAND STYLE: My 2022 Treasures!

Posted on May 26, 2022 by sarahlondonstyle

How glam is my new “old” belt? This one is a keeper as its perfect to cinch in this tres chic caftan!

Welcome to another fun blogpost that I write with Jane from The Small Fabric of My Life and this month we will both put our own spin on our ”latest treasures”…. AKA what we have recently added secondhand to our closets. So be sure to press on the link at the end to read what Jane has to say, but before I continue, if you would like to comment, quickly go back up to the top, press on the title and this post will reopen with that option at the end.

At the end of 2021 and the start of 2022 I vowed to curate my entire wardrobe (which I have pretty much completed) with the aim of knowing it so well that I would only introduce “new” items that:
1. I really love,
2. Enhance my style, and
3. Think are ”WOW” !!
I want to think of them all as treasures, so no matter what I reach for and decide to wear, it makes me feel and look great 😊 This not just encourages me to wear and rewear (yay sustainability👏🏻), it reduces my consumption (aka shopping habit 😉). And today is a reckoning of kinds to see if what I have added to it secondhand does indeed do all of the above … let’s begin with accessories…

Bags, Scarves, Belts and Jewellery are what I look for first when I visit op shops. While they may be a small in size, they often have a huge impact on an outfit. And if you like to wear and rewear your clothes like I do, they are what makes them feel fresh and repeatedly different. So I like a wide choice in them when deciding how to style what I choose to wear each day. Which makes it a no brainer that it’s what I buy the most of. And at secondhand stores, they tend to be on the periphery and it’s where I’m finding I usually start (shoes are what I seek out next…but I haven’t bought any this year). Here’s a look at what has caught my attention:

I do actually love them all! They are definitely me, but do they ALL have the WOW factor? Perhaps not… infact the grid scarf and tan leather crossbody bag fall short 🤔 I feel I already own nicer alternatives. But given neither cost me more than $8 (and it goes to charity), I don’t think them a waste of money. Instead, how I’m viewing these is as impulse purchases that are now taking up unnecessary space in a well thought out wardrobe. Exactly what I’m trying to stop doing! So I’m taking note and the fact I’m writing about makes me more mindful moving forward. Speaking of which, the bag will be gifted to someone who raved about it, and the scarf will remake its way back to a charity shop (if one of my daughters or their friends don’t take it 😉👏🏻)

Now let’s look at the clothes. When searching the rails, I always start with dresses no matter the season, then jackets and coats. I’m not a big “separates” wearer, so I usually avoid skirts, pants and blouses (I may start looking at these since i just bought a ”new” tweed skirt)…although in Winter I will look at vests and jumpers. What I’ve found this year is these:

My salmon pink midi dress in a stunning french viscose. I mean Wow! And a 100% cotton seersucker cream/white maxi dress, simple but just as WOW when worn with tan and raffia accessories. Both my colours, shape and style and the fact that I’m styling the latter without wearing it is always a sign of a good purchase 😂 its a tad cold for it at the moment, but I have worn the midi several ways already…

I did find a fab leopard skivvy/turtle neck that I was coveting for months after seeing it on my SIGNATURE STYLE blogging pal Cindy. Although I scrolled the secondhand sites for this, not aisles! Needless to say, it satisfies all the criteria ☺️

My Mum actually found the khaki trench below (we spend at least a day op shopping each time I visit her – which although a 4 hour flight away, is fairly regularly now I can 😉), and as it was too small on her, I tried it and voila! I think I’ve found the perfect way to wear it. This outfit will be repeated! I found the tartan jacket with her too, but unfortunately as soon as my daughter saw it, up it went into her wardrobe. Which in hindsight is a good thing, as it really is too vibrant and a bit young for me 😂. The leather jacket on the other hand is a keeper, its gorgeous! So it’s a big WOW for two out of three!

Oops I almost forgot… this gorgeous Leopard Coat that I bought back in January was resold (to a lovely reader who rocks it far better than me 😎). It just wasn’t my colour 😉

And that’s pretty much all I’ve allowed in and to stay 😂 …..

What I am particularly happy with is where my wardrobe is now. I absolutely love everything in it, it is all very me in colours and style and together this creates outfits for every occasion that I think are WOW. Which in turn has changed my relationship with my wardrobe. It’s become far more considered. And I’m becoming a much savvier shopper! So anything that does come in, like what I’ve shown you, must match this WOW factor! … after all, it only wears off on how you feel when wearing it. What a feel good! And that this can be created by shopping secondhand makes me feel even better 🙏🏻

Now, let’s take a look inside Jane’s secondhand wardrobe…

THE SMALL FABRIC OF MY LIFE

Sarah xx

SECONDHAND STYLE: What I’ve learnt from the #sarahjanecapsulechallenge ☺️

Posted on April 28, 2022 by sarahlondonstyle

Welcome back to the Secondhand Style blog that I write with Jane from The Small Fabric of My Life. And this month it’s a recap on what I’ve learnt from my experience of wearing a “preloved capsule” over the last month after writing the last secondhand style blog. But before I continue, if you would like to comment, please scroll back up to the title, press on it and this post will reopen with a commenting option at the bottom. Now, if you did just go back and read last month’s blog, you’ll recognise that I summised with this at the end:

“Capsules help you get creative while simplifying things. They also allow you to create a Wabi Sabi look in your own style. I love that, less about what’s trending and more about what you love to wear… your style! And while I don’t really have a need for them everyday, I certainly love the idea. More so for me when I travel. Regardless, It’s been such fun!”

Still completely on point for me and how I feel about them today. Although I did have a major “aha moment” for my own #savvystyle while reflecting which I’ll share at the end. So hold that thought and take a look at these final 8 creative looks (couldn’t quite reach the required 10) I came up with from 10 preloved garments:

The two outfits at the end are perhaps my favourites. Why? When I wear a pant, I love a dress over them. It’s a look I’ve been wearing since the early 2000’s! And as I’m always saying on IG, I do love the way a self tie belt gives me shape, while not cutting my short frame (163 cm) in half! I could have created more if i’d chosen to wear jeans and the short jacket, but wanting to keep it authentic i didn’t, because that’s simply not my style. Interestingly, when I put all the outfits up on IG stories, the one below was voted as the best by my IG community:

A community who also happened to join in the fun! Thank you so much Belinda @queenbzyb.fashion and Jackie @queanbeenan for taking up the challenge!

I’ve learnt a few practical tips for creating capsules for myself through this exercise. Firstly, if you stick to a colour palette- I used tans and browns with a pop of orange everything is more likely to coordinate. Tonal is key to me. Secondly, use a majority in block colours, and keep any patterns small scale. This will increase the ability to mix and match. Remember Leopard is almost always a neutral so always include a tonal option. Thirdly, choose clothes that fit you and your life and style. Comfort is key! And lastly, great style doesn’t have to be new, on trend or cost a lot of money!

Which makes any capsule (or in this case a 10 item “preloved capsule”) time and cost effective and a great way to “up your sustainability” by increasing the number of wears from garments. And as the garments I styled were those I already owned, I found that in the planning and creating I focused more on what I had to use VS. what I may want to purchase. Which in turn, had me wearing items I’ve had for ages! What was old felt fresh again! Albeit, in a wabi-sabi way. Less influencing “new” and more “style” … which actually resulted in reloving and rewearing my wardrobe on the remaining 21 days. I felt no urge to consume virgin retail or secondhand in April at all 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻! While I try to do this for 3-4 months a year, having a capsule challenge made it easier! Perhaps we should do this again come my Spring, your Autumn Jane? ….just a thought 😉

Which leads me once again to what I’m always harping on about … know your own Style! Because once you do know the shapes, looks and colours that make you look and feel good and you focus on buying only those ….this is my aha……your entire wardrobe can become its own capsule (albeit, a slightly larger version) … a collection of your own style that you enthusiastically and authentically mix and match! Which is what my own “curating my closet” has really been about all year. Working my way through everything I own seasonally, in order to create a harmonious considered collection of clothes that I can wear and rewear for years. So, moving forward, I only “occasionally” pause my wearing to allow in an additional item that will compliment its careful curation 🙏🏻

Which is why i think I’m onto something with this ”curate your closet” mentality… it makes creating capsules for any occasion incredibly easy! And since you’ll only mindfully add items of your STYLE to it, it has the added bonus of these not needing to be ”on trend or new retail” which makes “treasure hunting” (AKA shopping secondhand – I’ve even written about that here) a no brainer! And why in May on my IG page, I’ll be featuring a little bit more of it ….. in of course my style!

Now, why not join me in pressing the link below to read Jane’s recap 😊

THE SMALL FABRIC OF MY LIFE

Sarah xx

SECONDHAND STYLE: AW22 Capsule Wardrobe Challenge 🤎

Posted on March 31, 2022 by sarahlondonstyle

Welcome to March’s SECONDHAND STYLE blog with myself and blogging buddy Jane from The Small Fabric of my Life! And this month we are going to talk about something completely different. A Capsule Challenge for April (great idea Jane 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻) ! In which we challenge ourselves (and maybe you would like to join in on INSTAGRAM ?) to gather 10 preloved items from our wardrobe and attempt to style them in as many outfits as possible. If you would like to join in the fun, simply use the hashtag (when posting a picture on IG) #SarahJaneCapsuleChallenge22 😉 …. and if you would like to comment on this blog, simply press the title of it now to open the page with the commenting option at the bottom.

Capsule Wardrobes are new to me. I don’t think I’ve ever really bought or worn them with that term in mind before. But as I was working my way through my wardrobe gathering the 10 (actually I ended up with 9) secondhand items to mix and match, I had a revelation. This really is how I approach packing whenever I go away. So I had some experience after all…. and this is how I approached it.

When I travel, I always start with knowing where I am going and what I am doing. This will tell me the weather I need to dress for and the styles I’ll need. Not quite what I’m doing this time, but as it’s now Autumn, I’ve based this capsule challenge on cooler clothes (think Melbourne Autumn/Winter) and style wise I’m going for everyday creative casual. Outfits that will suit occasions like a road trip, shopping, visiting an art gallery, lunching with friends, and dining out. Then I decide on a colour palette, and for this exercise I’ve gone with primarily browns and tans, with a touch of black 😳 and animal print 🐆 Using block colours always increases the ability for garments to mix and match and keeping any pattern small scale allows for repetition without making it obvious you’re wearing the same item twice. And since leopard is almost always a neutral, it tends to work with a lot. And for this month’s challenge I selected 9 items (jewellery, hosiery and sunglasses not included).

And here are the garments I selected:

A pair of jeans, that I have had cropped, so they look more current,

2. A dress (which is black, perhaps a tad short, but for some reason i can’t part with),

3 & 4. 2 jumpers, a plain and a pattern,

5 & 6. 1 jacket and 1 gilet.

All are secondhand and vary in age from a few months to 10 plus years old in my wardrobe. I think you can already see from the photos how harmonious they are together.

And for the accessories:

7. 1 crossbody bag (that can double as a clutch),

8. 1 scarf,

9. 1 pair of 19 year old boots ( if I had a flat pair of #secondhand shoes that worked, I would have added them too..but to stay true to the theme I don’t).

Since Jane and I decided that jewellery and hosiery doesn’t count in this challenge, you may wear what you like, but to keep it simple, I’ve opted to repeat the brass jewels below, because that is what I would do if I took this capsule on a holiday.

Capsules help you get creative while simplifying things. They also allow you to create a Wabi Sabi look in your own style. I love that, less about what’s trending and more about what you love to wear… your style! And while I don’t really have a need for them everyday, I certainly love the idea. More so for me when I travel. Regardless, It’s been such fun! So I will enjoy sharing with you the 8 outfits I came up with on INSTAGRAM this month…. until then scroll down for my first look … and be sure to read what Jane is putting together by pressing on the link below:

Sarah xx

THE SMALL FABRIC OF MY LIFE

SECONDHAND STYLE: Treasure Hunting

Posted on February 25, 2022 by sarahlondonstyle

Welcome 🙏🏻 This month, my SECONDHAND STYLE blogging buddy Jane from The Small Fabric of my Life became a Grandmother for the second time 😊 Congratulations Jane! So she is taking a break from writing to focus on what is really important! And as it’s just me, I thought I’d share some thoughts on how I find looking for secondhand (and all shopping really) like hunting for treasure 😉

Treasure Hunting is a wonderful expression. For me, it conjures up an adventure ! Which is one of the things I love the most about seeking anything secondhand. Whether it be the search for something I’ve seen on someone, or something for the home, there is definitely an excitement and a rush when embarking on it. As you never quite know what you will come across along the way or when you will actually find it 😂 …. which is a refreshingly good thing! Because in this world of instant gratification, seeking secondhand often brings patience and a “delay on getting things” back into my life. Which is treasure in itself 💛

I rarely embark on a treasure hunt without having a “so called” map. Which is where my Wishlist ( that I always talk about on IG ) comes in handy. Handwritten on a page in my filofax (yup, still use one!😂) are the sought after items …whether they be for my wardrobe or my home, I jot down specific things I’d like to bring in over time. None are urgently required, and they are definitely more wants than needs, but if I feel they would benefit me, they are put on my wishlist ! I find having a list in itself mindful as its something to refer to and reduces those random purchases 🙏🏻. And once an item is on it, what I choose to do, is sit with it, because sometimes that item isn’t what I was seeking after all and I mindfully remove it 😂 this also removes the urgent ”Ooohhh… want that” we all feel. But if some things stick (like the garments below), I actively embark on hunting them down. And over the past six months, I’ve happily managed to acquire three gems on the list, two have been found secondhand (and one new, although I did patiently wait 12 months for these to go on sale 😉) Of course, that doesn’t mean I always stick to the list… sometimes something just stops you in your tracks and you go WOW 🤩 like these gorgeous bangles I found at SAVERS:

The total of which cost me $17! Which of course, is the absolute bonus of waiting and buying preloved! It will be cheaper than RRP! And if you don’t stray too far from your style you will save money. See how well they accessorise with one of my fave dresses:

And as I’m getting wiser at purchasing less and better, I rarely make costly mistakes. I’m a stickler for the longevity of an item, so I always examine it carefully, read tags, and if online google alternatives and original prices. Remember, buying preloved doesn’t mean you have to settle with the quality! A great way to know what an item (or those like it) is worth is using a picture. I wrote about that here (it’s also about an item that wasn’t on the Wishlist 😉)

Two of the items on my Wishlist that I have crossed off over the last few months are these. The Zara gilet isn’t rare or new in design as I’ve seen it styled on many for a few years. It’s fabric composition is wool, viscose and polyester. Now I know this brand isn’t the highest quality, so to me, it’s something that certainly doesn’t warrant the original $219 RRP tag, and finally after about 12 months of coveting, last September, one came up on Depop, NWT 😳and in my size! You can imagine my excitement 😂 It was asking $100, I offered $90 and it was excepted! So I grabbed it!! YAY FOR ME ! I’m really looking forward to wearing it (with a top underneath…not just a bra 😂) as its a great alternative to a coat!

And it will look so cool over the Ganni turtleneck that I have coveted many times on my SIGNATURE STYLE blogging pal Cindy Hattersley (so it came recommended)….which is now mine! Well, it’s in the mail, as it only hit my radar last Sunday. Again, purchased on Depop, I offered $10 less than the asking price, and it was accepted. I am super looking forward to it. I continually wear turtlenecks throughout the cooler months, so to know that I will have this one in my repertoire is GOLD!

So waiting patiently and choosing to treasure hunt vs. racing to retail cost me $169 instead of $414. But it’s not just about the price, it’s also fun! Checking in on secondhand sites, perusing the charity racks for the exact or similar is a kind of game. It keeps me focused on what would add value to my wardrobe while waiting patiently delays the gratification which somehow makes them something I will treasure!

I’m not quite sure when my next gem will be mined although I do currently have one item on my Wishlist (a midi length silk or cotton slip in a skin tone). I have located one new, but as there is no urgency, I might just treasure hunt it instead 😉

If you would like to leave a comment, press on the article’s title and you should be able to at its end.

Sarah xx

SAVVY STYLE: Shopping

Posted on February 7, 2022 by sarahlondonstyle

Welcome back to another blogpost on how I look at my life to make me feel good. And today I’m tackling the pillar that really grew SLS, so I hope you like what I have to say now I’ve pivoted 😂 once again 🙄, although its more of a 350/360 degree pivot as it’s brought me back to being the mindful stylist … so with that in mind, lets talk SHOPPING!

Tackling being the appropriate verb 😩 as I have (until now) had a love/hate relationship with SHOPPING, from how I see it on instagram (don’t start me on the haul mentality) and it’s contribution to our over consuming world, to my own flawed ”add to cart” moments and serious fashion influencing over the last 18 months (yes, I am guilty of contributing to the problem). So the new year has me slowing it right down and questioning my intentions on what I should buy (and share with you) SHOPPING wise. And this little blog is simply about that, written down (primarily for my very cool ethical daughters to read in the future), but in the mean time, hopeful some of what I say and do resonates with you, so together we can all be the change we need to see. This is the beginning of my own return to SLOW fashion (albeit wabi-sabi) story 😊

Slow Fashion is an approach to producing clothes which takes into consideration all aspect of the supply chain and in doing so aims to respect people, the environment and animals. It also means spending more time on the design process, ensuring that each piece of apparel is quality made. It is the exact opposite of Fast Fashion. What I love, other than all of the above, is that it teaches you to be more thoughtful and intentional about your clothing. More mindful styling… 🙏🏻

I’ve already written about RELOVE and about WEARING here. With all this in mind… it’s Slow Fashion that makes me “feel good” about shopping “new” as my style is NOT ALL about wearing what you have or buying PRELOVED clothing. Although they are my ”go to” and I always feel good about those 😍 I also love to hunt down new WOW garments in my colour and style that flatter me and coordinate with my current carefully curated closet 🙏🏻 So my aim is to share some small amazing designers out there, who use quality, ethically sourced fabrics, and pay their workers a fair wage. And today I’m going to talk about Catherine Murphy The Label.

I’ve never met Catherine. And until early 2018, I wasn’t even aware of her brand, despite her being a Melbournian who’s been in the industry for more over 20 years! But one day on my local high street a dress caught my eye in a small boutique. The attention to detail blew me away, the cut, the embroidery, the scalloping, the contast fabrics in body and fluted sleeve. The silhouette that hugs the bust, but covers it, the high waist that makes my legs look longer and the A-line skirt that skims the hips. And not much volume, which I’m learning suits me more than the tiered dress I often lean towards. No alteration needed (which is rare) and after a quick try on, I was sold, not on one but these two dresses. It’s like her designs are made for me!

Since then, I’ve followed her designs each season and luckily picked up another forever dress at the end of 2020. Even more forever since I dyed it Dylon Expresso Brown 😉

But let’s look at the Catherine Murphy story, because as you all know, I like to connect my clothes to the people who design and make them. Catherine designs for the luxe bohemian, which as I age, is how I like to feel. (Although, I do not see any 50 plus models on her site 🤔) She definitely has quality made garments, in exquisite natural fabrics with sophisticated details. She uses local artisans and manufacturers limited quantities of each size here in Melbourne. All of which I love 🙏🏻 It may bring the price up (although keep in mind, there are other Aussie brands that mass produce offshore with similar prices), but I would rather own less by buying better, knowing that these garments in my wardrobe are thoughtfully made and then mindfully purchased to serve my style well over time. And personally, i’d rather rewear one Catherine Murphy dress like this, than alternate four disposable mass produced chain store ones (which I have in the past).

Having mentioned price. Lets talk SHOPPING her brand. I did actually purchase all mine on sale from small local boutiques. So I’m currently looking for her stockists to keep my eye on their sales. Their sales will often differ to those from the designer’s own website. Although, I’m not having much luck, so I’m beginning to think she may only sell direct now 🤔 The SALE section on the CM website currently includes Summer season. It only just started.( So I’m making a note of the date to see if a pattern forms… that’s savvy 😉) But remember, given the limited quantities of each dress made, size may be an issue if you do wait ! Which is why 10% off full price from her website for first time orders appeals for new season. Some stockists may have this offer too. But this doesn’t mean that i’ve given up on prelove, as I also have Catherine Murphy as a “saved search” on eBay just incase any older season comes up or someone else’s wrong size purchase works in my favour. I’m currently contemplating this ONE. It is very old season, but timeless in my mind. And quite iconic given it was worn by Nina Proudman in Offspring 😂 I feel confident bidding on this because I know the quality will be great, I know how her style suits me, I know my colours and I now know my size in her brand. I absolutely love SHOPPING all these ways because it’s just so savvy 😉

So wish me luck🤞🏻…. and on that note, I’m so looking forward to what CM creates for AW22 😊

If this way to shop does in fact resonate with you, why not look at a garment you adore in your wardrobe and research who designed and made it and see if buying from them makes you feel good 😉 If it does… why not get on board with shopping the savvy style way?

Sarah xx

SECONDHAND STYLE: Accessories 😊

Posted on January 27, 2022 by sarahlondonstyle

I am crazy about accessories! Jewellery, Bags, Belts, Shoes, Scarves, Hats … well maybe I’m slowly getting there with hats… 😂 But I’m all in when it comes to the others and I always have been. In fact, since I find a great accessory can either make or break an outfit, I’m always on the lookout for something different . And one way to find that is to shop secondhand! So welcome to a SECOND HAND STYLE blogpost on just that! Well at least the Jewellery bit for now 😉 and what and where I look for my costume jewellery. And be sure to read what my secondhand blogging buddy Jane from The Small Fabric of my Life has to say about her secondhand accessories after reading this 😊

A mix of secondhand on the lid of my secondhand (hand me down) jewellery box 😊

You can find secondhand accessories everywhere. And a great place to start is your local thrift shop. It truly is a treasure trove for costume jewels, as it seems people are more than ready to discard them! In fact, I really have no idea why you would want to look anywhere else for fun but cheap bangles, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, brooches and the like. Those discount mass produced pieces you find at your nearest Westfield make it to your local secondhand shop pretty quickly. And if you are a jewellery creator like me, you will find all kinds of beads and pendants you can pull apart and redesign. Just like the pieces below. I use my tools, and then mix bits and bobs from various jewels to create bespoke pieces. What is becoming harder to find at these stores though is quality retro or vintage, (although some shops do) and these you will usually find behind glass and you will pay accordingly. But its always good to look. And remember..all proceeds go to charity!

I do find quite a few quirky jewellery pieces at local markets. Think trash and treasure, car boot sales, garage/yard sales. The price may be a tiny bit more than the charity shop, but the quality is usually a little better. And don’t be afraid to barter here! What I find are items that people don’t necessarily want to give away, but because they are here to make money, they may take a little bit off the asking price. Although you will get some people reselling what they have bought at Op shops. So be prepared for that and keep your eyes open for something different. I found this lovely brass statement necklace at my neighbourhood market one Sunday morning years ago. It gets worn often and I can never imagine not having it as an option. The other I made with a pendant I found 😊

I also have a thing for Ebay 😂 I have shopped it more than any other secondhand online platform. The only downfall is that you don’t actually get to see before you buy, so I tend to stick to brands I know. The giraffe patterned bangle in the top picture was bought on Ebay, it’s Mimco and was relatively cheap. I have a thing for what you could call neck plates. Large necklaces that cover part of the chest. Sometimes they are on trend, sometimes not. But I keep mine handy and wear them regardless as I find them handy when a garment’s neckline doesn’t suit. They can be a bit pricey new, so I have found shopping old season on Ebay a great way to build my collection at a fraction of the price.

Another place I look for secondhand jewellery is Designer Recycle stores, although I have only ever bought one necklace this way. And while it still wasn’t cheap, it was significantly less expensive than new. You have to be careful here and always ask for authenticity. This is my Marni necklace. I fell in love with it the moment I saw it before I had any idea of its brand. And I think it makes this outfit.

And then of course there are Antique Jewellers, Auction Houses and Pawn Brokers where there are many bargains to be had! Although they tend to focus on valuable secondhand jewellery rather than costume. I actually have a secret to share here about my own engagement ring….. yup! It is actually secondhand! I don’t think I’ve told many people that 😳

And lastly, inherited pieces 😊 jewels worn by loved family members and now by you. I am lucky enough to have such pieces and I adore the stories I have discovered behind every one. In fact, I must write them down as it can be hard knowing all the details because it’s usually too late to ask. Take the watch in the top picture. It was my paternal Grandmother’s but that’s all I know 😢

The lovely thing about buying secondhand is that there are so many different ways to do it. Not to mention the bargain factor, that I have actually mentioned all the way through 😂Regardless, what I love the most is the fun had while doing it….you never really know what you’re going to find. Sometimes nothing, sometimes treasure … which is actually what next month’s topic might be on 😉 But until then, join me in popping over to read what Jane has to say.

Sarah xx

SECONDHAND STYLE: Shoes…do you buy yours preloved?

Posted on November 25, 2021 by sarahlondonstyle

Well, neither did I really, or haven’t actively for many years, so when Jane from The Small Fabric of My Life blog suggested “shoes” as a topic for this month, I jumped at it! Not because I own many preloved pairs (don’t worry I have some to show you 😉), but because it’s not my usual “go to” way of purchasing them. And as an avid yet mindful wearer of style, who strives to improve her sustainable shopping habits, I’m very aware that not all I receive NEW from the shoe department is as sustainable (or as my style) in my wardrobe as I like to think. So it got me wondering, can I improve my own sustainability and add to my style by buying “SECONDHAND” shoes instead ? 🤔

Now, for those of you who know my wardrobe, know that I have more pairs of shoes than i’ll ever wear out. (I even recently announced that I won’t be buying or accepting any gifted product until after Christmas) And tbh, to be truly sustainable I should just forget about any new or secondhand and wear these! But being someone who seeks to improve her style, and enjoys wearing and sharing it, I’m also aware that I will add to it too. Which is what I did last year with these #secondhand boots 🤩 …. aren’t they gorgeous? I bought them from a designer recycle boutique (AS IF DESIGNER RECYCLE). Which is definitely one way to get the sustainable “designer” style factor ! And although designer labels are not usually what I gravitate towards, when I first saw these “Valentinos”, I just loved them! And that’s before I found out the brand or cost…. I just knew they would work well with my wardrobe for many years to come…and that is the exact feeling and type of shoe I am after on my feet!

Preloved Polka Dot Valentino Ankle Boots

Acknowledging that this WOW provoking purchase was from secondhand vs. new retail got me researching. I downloaded a few popular secondhand shopping Apps (eBay, Vestiare Collective and Depop) and typed in some familiar designer shoe brands that I happen to know my size in. And voila, instantly, the most divine preloved Spanish espadrille wedges by Castaner, iconic heeled Clergeries and fur lined Guccis were available at the click of a button in my size and my price range! Albeit, the higher end… I was actually quite shocked 😳 Talk about improving my sustainability and style! … and btw, when I last looked on VC, my Polka Dot Valentino’s were available in another size 😉

This doesn’t mean that every pair of shoes I look at buying secondhand have to be designer. I just want the wow 🤩 And so with a non-designer price tag, the range is endless. So, to further my research, I focussed on a shoe in my style and colour palette that I wore almost everyday last Winter, but lacked variety in ….the flatter heeled knee high boot. But this time in the brown/tan tones of “suede”… and look what came up 😍 an all leather over the knee mottled, chocolate brown wedge heeled pair of Filippo Raphaels 🤎 clearly worn, but stunning in my eyes just the same! Oh so my colour! Oh so my style! I’m already putting together outfits in my head 😂 and as these are a brand I am most familiar with, having both boots and shoes in them already I may have slipped up and made a “no more shopping” faux pas 😳 … all in the name of research of course 😉! This brand is specific to Australian Boutique Edward Meller, who source them from Spain and Turkey and stamp their in-house label Filippo Raphael brand onto them. They are very well made, and designed to remain stylish for years. The Boutique would have originally retailed them in the $300 plus price bracket. Yet, here they were, albeit aged (but doesn’t suede look better that way?) on Ebayau for $25 plus $15 postage 😳… how could I say no?

And of course, there is always MarketPlace on Facebook. This is where sellers in your area allow you to pick up preloved items, which allows you to see before you buy and avoid postage costs. So, again in the interest of this blogpost, I searched long suede boot 36 (my size) and came up with another amazing pair! This time, from a brand I wasn’t familiar with shoe wise, but had their clothing . Elk is a highly considered slow fashion brand based here in Melbourne, who promote shopping for quality investment pieces that build on your existing wardrobe. So you know, when you buy this brand, you will get quality! Which is what I got with this pair…..

So thank you Jane 🙏🏻, this entire exercise has been quite an eye opener for me. Two stunning pairs of boots have sustainably and stylishly made their way onto my shelves, for the total cost of $100! It’s actually proved to be a really great money saving exercise shopping like this, let alone, a planet friendly one 😊 and if you don’t mind placing your feet in someone else’s shoes, it’s easier than you think. (Fyi… I always wipe (or brush in the case of suede) down the outside and use anti-bac wipes on the inside before wearing 😂). The secret for me, I found, is to stick with my own style (knowing what yours is and following it instead of fashion will always serve you well 😉), stick to my colour palette, seek brands I am familiar with in quality and size, then save and filter these in my online searches. And if I am after something a little high end, from an unfamiliar label that I may want to try (wear socks) before I buy, building a connection with designer recycle boutiques will certainly help. And that’s before I even visit the charity shops! Have I got you thinking? Jane certainly got me…

Which is why I wonder what Jane’s experience holds, be sure to read her blogpost on THE SMALL FABRIC OF MY LIFE …that’s where I’m heading now 😊

Sarah xx