I’d like to press pause and declare a “Sister Break” over at We So Thrifty. I’ve decided, in the event I’m too lazy to set up my tripod and wash my hair, my sisters will serve as official subs for this blog, since they live down the street and thrift nearly as much as I do. I haven’t told them this yet. I hope they like surprises! Over the weekend, I was with them before they headed out for martinis, and my little sister Laura looked so very chic, I harassed her until she agreed to let me take her photo (I was one step away from offering her financial incentives before she relented – sucker!).
Laura thrifted this fabulous gold top with lace detail – I’d never seen anything quite like it. When I asked her where it was orginally from, she replied, almost in disbelief “Lindor!” For those of you who haven’t heard of Lindor, it’s what I like to call a “Wealthy Mom Brand” (not to be confused with the delicious chocolates of a similar name). I define Wealthy Mom Brands (WMBs) as brands that are targeted to well-to-do women over 40. While Laura was suprised to find something so “hip”, I wasn’t. I’ve learned through my years of wandering the thrift wildnerness that WMBs are your best friend.
In my closet, I’ve thrifted many items that fit under this category. Some of my favourite Mom Brands are Chico’s, Talbots, Lindor and Jones New York. I love these items because they are good quality garments – and you pay for that when you buy them new. Most people can’t afford to pay $60 for a blouse until they’re well-established career women, or they married rich and can therefore afford a life of leisure and spend all day wearing cardigans and drinking tea. Well, to all my debt-ridden 20-somethings: that $60 blouse can be yours for $5.99, and you can have as much tea as you like if you reuse the bag!
I’ve learned to familiarize myself with these brands, so when I thrift, I pass right over the Old Navy and Joe Fresh, and pick up the Anne Klein next to it. And, take notes from Laura: If you’re worried these brands are too mature for your style, pair them with some funky earrings, a tight black skirt, and a statement belt, then everyone will be jealous. If not everyone, at least your older sister will be. And she’s so nice, you should probably let her borrow that top.