Over the weekend Brian and I met some friends down in Fair Park for Flea Style.Ā We went on Friday night for the preview event. I have seen so many cute pictures of their past events so I was excited to be able to go this time around. The vendors that participate in Flea Style are amazing. We saw some amazing jewelry, cute clothing boutiques, unique furniture and vintage finds. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I will say that I left with a goodie bag filled with great finds!
My favorite score from the evening was without a doubt this vintage Hermes scarf. We were on the last aisle close to the end and we had wandered into an antique booth. I spotted the colorful silk scarves hanging in the armoireĀ and rushed over to them. I grabbed this orange one and never set it down again. The pattern is different boats with one named the Thalassa. Brian’s company just so happens to have a ship named the Thalassa. Fate? I think so!
Since my time at Oklahoma State I have learned to love the color orange. I admit it was never my first choice, but since college I have found so many great orange pieces. One of which is theĀ great orange blazer I wore in this post. Hermes is known for that certain shade of orange so I knew I couldn’t go wrong with this scarf.
I have collected a few designer things over the years, most of which are shoes and bags. I think investing in quality pieces pays off but since I don’t have a designer budget all of the time it’s important to make smart choices. A vintage Hermes scarf for a fraction of the price was a no-brainer for me, but there have been many other investments that took a little more consideration. My pair of Chanel boots definitely needed consideration. They are gorgeous and made of the most luxurious leather, but I still wanted to make sure that I would be able to wear them for years since the investment was hefty. I have worn them constantly for the past 3 winters, since I got them and haven’t looked back once.
Designer splurges are fun but it takes time to build a collection of classic pieces that you love. If you are thinking about investing in a designer piece here are few things to consider:
- Save first: Set aside money each month and work up to the purchase. I don’t believe in impulse designer shopping. Unless you have the budget, then go for it!
- Stay classic: Don’t go with the trendy items, you will be so much happier in the long run that you can still wear your item season after season. A classic Chanel flap will last you much longer than this season’s tweed backpack.
- Stay true to your style: Designer pieces can be subjective. At the end of the day if you love it, that’s what matters. This will be a treasure in your closet, so don’t buy something just because everyone else has it.
- Keep the colors neutral: Black, camel, gray, luggage and navy are always a safe bet. If you are going to go for color, make sure it’s a color that you truly love and will be able to incorporateĀ into your wardrobe.
- Shop vintage: You can find the best deals in vintage shops! My scarf is currently online for three times what I paid for it! It pays to shop around and check out the re-sale shops. Always get it authenticated before you purchase!
I have always admired fine clothing and designer accessories, but it has taken me years to build my collection. I prefer to do it slowly and make sure that I truly love every piece. Do you have any designer pieces that you are working towards? My ultimate goal is a Chanel bag!
I hope you are enjoying your week! Tomorrow’s gift guide is perfect for the #jetsetter! xo Bryn
Shop the Look:
Coat: Ann Taylor (similar,Ā also love this one), Sweater: J.Crew, Jeans: Old Navy, Bag: Michael Kors, Boots: Chanel, Scarf: Vintage Hermes (similar)
Great tips! I loved the one about buying classic pieces and staying away from trendy ones, it makes so much sense!
xo|Cindy
http://www.boringclothes.com
Thank you Cindy! It’s something I have had to remind myself of before! xo Bryn
A Chanel bag is my dream! For now, I am saving for the SW OTK boots and another Marc Jacobs bag to take travelling with me. I agree though, saving is so important with such a big purchase!
xx Victoria
http://www.strungingold.com
Yes to the Chanel! And you will love the OTK boots! So worth the saving! xo Bryn
These are definitely great tips! I do believe in investing great pieces, but I also don’t have the budget for them. Definitely saving and being selective in the which piece to purchase is key. You look amazing Bryn (as always!).
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
I completely agree! Being selective and reasonable is always a good idea! xo Bryn
Love these warm colors, makes for such a cozy-looking outfit. Wonderful list of tips!
Mary
http://www.marymurnane.com
Thank you Mary! That’s so sweet! xo Bryn
Love this look!
Such a cute coat and scarf, love all the colors!
xo.
http://www.itswhatsin.com
Thank you so much!! I appreciate it! xo Bryn
Oh that scarf is divine! What a great find, Bryn! They were great tips too, I so agree with all of them. Plus I think if you save up and plan over a longer period of time, it feels so good when you finally get it, rather than just buying some random designer piece in the moment.
xx Madeleine
http://www.lilyandblush.com
Oh that scarf is divine! What a great find, Bryn! They were great tips too, I so agree with all of them. Plus I think if you save up and plan over a longer period of time, it feels so good when you finally get it, rather than just buying some random designer piece in the moment.
xx Madeleine
http://www.lilyandblush.com
I totally agree Madeleine! I love being able to buy something after months of saving. So rewarding! xo Bryn
SUCH A GREAT POST!! Sorry for the caps but I felt it was necessary š I loved this one, great tips!! Also, I adore Hermes scarves too and I think the one you found is an absolute beaut!!
Rebecca
xx
http://www.peppermintdolly.com
Thank you so much Rebecca!! I so appreciate you saying that! I love Hermes scarves, I was so excited! xo Bryn
Such an amazing find! I can’t believe you got that scarf at the flea market! Awesome tips Bryn, I totally agree with all of them!
Thank you Kasey! I couldn’t believe I found it! I was so excited! xo Bryn