July 16, 2014

Wear Someone Else's Closet???

Thrifting in the Queen City  
   
Lauren and I were on assignment in Folly Beach, SC this past weekend.  Well, we were on a surf trip and working on the side, but can you blame us?!  I'm fortunate enough to be a member of the Junior League of Charlotte.  To quote their mission, the Junior League of Charlotte is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, to developing the potential of women and to improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.  The main source of income for our League is the JLC WearHouse  located in Plaza Midwood off of Pecan Avenue.  The WearHouse is a thrift and consignment boutique mostly sourcing clothes through donations from League members.  We pride ourselves on being one of the best kept secrets in Charlotte's retail market.  But now it's time to get the word out!  Rubies on Vanilla has been tasked with helping them promote the store by styling and photographing the items currently available for sale.  At the end of this month, the WearHouse will have their semi-annual Gamblers Sale where items that are already priced from $5-$10 will be 75% off.  This store has so many hidden gems I hardly ever go home without making a purchase.  Check it out and see for yourself.  The best part is your shopping funds will be supporting the League with their outreach into the community!  It's a win/win for all involved!

Green and white silk tunic perfect to dress down for a casual dinner or to dress up for a special event.  The light fabric is wonderful for the hot summer months ahead.
The last of the summer clothing will be available through the end of the JLC Gamblers Sale.  After that, the clothes will be swapped out for next season’s items.  Don’t miss out on beautiful tops like this front zip up, polka dot, Cynthia Stewart top found in the thrift section.   It’s a no brainer for an end of summer beach trip!
The colorful Ella Moss pants were a steal I found at another favorite consignment shop of mine, Summer Bird on East Blvd. 
If you’re not quite finding the right item in the thrift section, don’t forget to check out the consignment section in the front of the store.  There you can currently find this JMcLaughlin skirt in mint condition.   You may just be heading back to the thrift section to find the perfect top to complete the ensemble!

Wrap dresses, first made popular by the esteemed designer Diane von Furstenberg, are the perfect wardrobe staple for every body type.  They pull-up and squeeze-in at the exact right places.  These long sleeve options shown below are both currently on sale at the WearHouse.  Dress them up with heals and a jacket for work and then switch out the jewelry to something more flirty for a happy hour meet up! 



We all know weddings can be expensive.  By buying a gorgeous, on trend dress at the WearHouse you’ll be cutting your expenses by more than half.  Save your money for splurging on a spa treatment or fabulous souvenir!




Gamblers Sale Details
July 20 - 26; 50% off
July 27 - August 2; 60% off
August 3 - 7; 75%
August 8th and 9th; Dollar Days!
After these dates the store will be turned over and Fall clothing will be displayed for purchase.   

If you happen to shop the sale be sure to share your finds on social media by using the hash tag #jlcgamblers.  You will automatically be entered into a contest to win a gift card to the WearHouse for your next purchase!  
www.facebook.com/jlcwearhouse
www.twitter.com/jlcwearhouse
www.instagram.com/jlcwearhouse

Tips for Thrifting
  • Even though most thrift stores categorize items according to size, always check the next size up and down.  As we all know designers vary with their sizing so an item labeled Medium may be perfect for a person that typically wears a Small. 
  • Also, don't be afraid to purchase an item that may be too big or need some altering.  If you're buying an item for $5, it may be worth another $5-$10 to make it fit just right! 
  • Don't buy items just because it's a steal if you already have the same or similar item in your closet. 
  • Think of friends or family when thrifting.  If you see an item that would be perfect for a friend and it's only a few bucks, scoop it up and gift it.  You know it will be appreciated plus it always feels good to give a present.  
  • Keep thrifting in mind for one time events like weddings, showers, interviews.  Instead of splurging on a dress that you'll wear once, check out the local thrift stores to see what someone else has given up.  Most dressy dresses at thrift stores are hardly worn.
  • most importantly HAVE FUN!
xo
RoV