For as long as I can remember, I've always been drawn to a more feminine way of life. I like to float, I like to drift and I like to leave a lasting impression by choosing a dress to be remembered. But if I were to do that the Designer, new way, I would be penniless. Instead, I opt for secondhand style.
I’ve spent over a decade in front of the camera, interviewing celebrities, parading and speaking in front of hundreds at events all over the world. And part of the role is to look aspirational. Like you have your stuff together. When in reality, everyone is just trying to suss it all out and wing their way from one moment to the next. But what I learned is that if you dress the part, you set the tone. You can become any version you want to be.
So that’s what I did. I sourced second hand dresses to make me look and feel premium for every occasion.
I would go so far to say, if I saw a dream like a ball gown in a charity shop- I brought it right there and then. Was I going to a ball? No, not on the agenda, but something from that dress could come in handy- the corset, the sash, the trimmings. It was all part of the plan.
So here’s what to remember when you are on the lookout for those special numbers.
Keep a close eye on the detail. Check zips work, fabric is stain-free and one of my pet hates- bubbles. I cannot stand when fabric bubbles.
Here’s a little tip that I’ve noticed. Generally people donate in bundles, and that person could have a similar taste to you so if you start seeing two dresses that you like and are the same size, look a little further- that same person could be donating a number of pre-loved beauties.
Choosing seasonless dresses will always help with longevity of your outfits but I’m not going to lie- I cannot resist a summer beauty. You know those ones that are delicate, dreamy and reminiscent of days in Ibiza or the south of France. But we are looking to build a long lasting capsule wardrobe so try to be strict with yourself and only buy those numbers when they really speak to your soul. And, layering always comes in handy if you pull that floaty number out of your closet in the depth of winter and want to bring in some heat to your day. Just add those layers and you are well away.
Secondhand styling is all about making you look and feel premium. Discovering fairytale dresses can help lift your mood, manifest your dreams or just come in handy as beautiful artwork when displaying them in your closet. Of course the main objective is to wear them but taking time to appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into beautifully designed dresses helps strengthen our overall appreciation of fashion.Look out for beadwork, hand sewn garments and vintage gems that tell a story of a time, past just waiting to be retold in a brand new way.
Take care of your dresses, and they will take care of you.
