September 26, 2023 How to Thrift Vintage Fashion
When you thrift vintage fashion, you’re really embarking on a treasure hunt. Who knows what you’ll find!
We’ve found some of our favorite pieces thrifting, and vintage pieces are a rare but wonderful treat to come across. Here’s how we scout them out, whether in our stores, in charity thrift stores, or at estate sales.
Look for Vintage Prints & Textiles
When you’re staring at a long rack of clothing pieces, you may feel overwhelmed. If you know that vintage fashion pieces are your goal, then we recommend you walk the rack and look for two big clues: vintage prints and vintage textiles.
The vintage prints are easy to catch. They may have a dainty floral print from the 50s or a psychedelic print from the 60s. You’ll learn the vintage textiles over time, but start by looking for high-quality fabrics. These pieces have lasted over time after all!
Check Closely for Condition
Just because these pieces have stood the test of time doesn’t mean they aged perfectly. You’ll want to check closely for the condition; a decades-long stain is unlikely to come out now.
Look for small tears in the fabric that may show the fabric has weakened over time. And of course, be cautious of mildew stains and musty smells.
Hunt for Vintage Accessories
We’d have to say that vintage fashion accessories are our favorite finds. You won’t see them everywhere, and they add an individual touch to your outfits. We look for vintage handbags, belts, scarves, and jewelry. We even shop for vintage shoes from designers known for their craftsmanship. Don’t forget to check for vintage luggage pieces too!
Try Vintage Evening Wear
If you have a special evening coming up, vintage dresses and suits are excellent finds. Pick one up even if you don’t have something on the books, as a wedding or special event is always around the corner.
This is how we thrift vintage fashion. We hope you find it as fun as we do!
September 25, 2023 Staff Style Spotlight: Clarissa
As part of our Staff Style Spotlight series, meet Clarissa, an Assistant Manager at Crossroads. We asked San Francisco employees to bring their style and star in our latest photoshoot wearing their Crossroads finds. Read about Clarissa’s personal style, favorite Crossroads finds, and favorite thing about working at Crossroads.
Tell us about your favorite Crossroads find.
A silk dress that came in the night before I had to attend a wedding. I’ve never felt so pretty in a dress.
How would you describe your personal style?
My friend once described my style as, “if SSENSE and Hot Topic had a baby” and I think it’s 100% accurate.
What fall trends are you hoping to see in store?
I’m looking for a new penny lane coat!
What brands are you hoping to see in store?
I love seeing boutique brands and foreign brands (European, Japanese, etc…).
What is your favorite thing about working at Crossroads?
Being exposed to new trends, styles, and brands.
Top tips for selling at Crossroads?
We buy current styles in good condition. Make sure it’s something cute and fashionable!
Thanks for the Staff Style Spotlight, Clarissa! As an Assistant Manager, Clarissa assists customers on the sales floor, trains and supervises staff members, and processes the amazing secondhand fashion that comes into their Crossroads. Does this sound like something you would be interested in? Join our team! Check out our Careers page to learn more about working at Crossroads.
September 21, 2023 Still Trending: The Oversized Suit
The popularity of the oversized suit remains strong, giving you a chance to try the look this fall if you haven’t already. In general, the oversized look is one we love, and we included it in our seasonal selling guide.
While suits may typically feel formal, it’s not the case with this trend. The oversized suit looks best when it’s paired with relaxed basics like t-shirts, tank tops, trainers, and baseball caps. The best accessories include chunky necklaces and classic handbags or totes.
The look is best for the office, an evening out, and lunch appointments. But there are no rules! Add this semi-casual look into your personal schedule. For example, we love seeing it below on a museum visit.
Keep scrolling to see the look in action, then read on to catch up on other trending oversized looks.
If you’re feeling inspired by the oversized suit trend, get even more styling ideas with our posts about oversized graphic tees and oversized cardigans. Then, stop into your neighborhood Crossroads store to shop or sell your pieces. We’re just waiting to fill your closet with new-to-you fall pieces that will soon become your go-to favorites.
September 20, 2023 Staff Style Spotlight: Earl
As part of our Staff Style Spotlight series, meet Earl, a Store Manager at Crossroads. We asked San Francisco employees to bring their style and star in our latest photoshoot wearing their Crossroads finds. Read about Earl’s personal style, favorite Crossroads finds, and favorite thing about working at Crossroads.
Tell us about your favorite Crossroads find.
My favorite Crossroads finds are my Louis Vuitton mini camera bag and large duffle!
How would you describe your personal style?
Vintage, basics with a classic flair.
What fall trends are you hoping to see in store?
Colored leather, cargo pants, minimal colors, and quality materials.
What brands are you hoping to see in store?
I would love to see more Rick Owens, Kith, and workwear brands.
What is your favorite thing about working at Crossroads?
Buying and helping support my team.
Top tips for selling at Crossroads?
Before the trend fades, just sell it!
Thanks for the Staff Style Spotlight, Earl! As a Store Manager, Earl has the exciting job of creating an aesthetically appealing environment that welcomes all customers, hiring and developing fashion-focused staff, curating retail store merchandise, and working to achieve retail store financial goals. Does this sound like something you would be interested in? Join our team! Check out our Careers page to learn more about working at Crossroads.
September 19, 2023 A Peek into Jobs in Sustainable Fashion
Jobs in sustainable fashion have been catching the eye of fashion lovers looking to kick off their careers. They want to share their fashion talents while taking part in the global effort to reduce fashion waste.
One of the best ways to get started is with a retail job for s sustainable fashion company, where you can learn about seasonal trend forecasting for styles and labels, customer shopping habits, and the best textiles and materials on the market.
For example, you could work retail for brands that solely produce sustainable clothing. You’ll learn about their special manufacturing processes and ethically sourced textiles.
Or, at a fashion resale store like Crossroads, you can also learn about fashion buying. Our fashion buyers stock our racks and shelves by purchasing pre-loved clothing directly from the public every day. In this role, they learn how to assess and price clothing based on current trends, styles, and customer demand. They enjoy stocking our stores with unwanted clothing that will have a second life with a new owner.
Plus, fashion buying is a special industry skill you don’t usually find in fashion retail. Interested? Take a peek at our jobs in sustainable fashion! We’re always hiring and have open positions in our stores across the U.S.
