Thrift Thursday. Sequin Formula.

(thrifted silk top, h&m jeans, Zara shoes)

Three of the easiest finds in a thrift store are VHS copies of Free Willy, leather belts and sequin tops. I would take a pass on Free Willy, though the amazing jump scene has often times inspired me to unshackle myself from the restraints of modern society and find true freedom in the depth of my own reality (?)... However, nice brown leather belts and anything that sparkles, inevitably ends up in my wheeled cart and coming home with me. And while belts hold up pants, define waists and reign in fabric, a sequin's main function on this earth is as a fabulous maker.

Despite their limited functionality, vintage sequin tops are a great buy. The sequins and beads are often sewn on silk or wool, they are truly unique and they are much better quality then anything found from at today's mass manufacturers. I would pay a fair amount for a French Connection sequin dress (I would... if I didn't get them from Winners for $20... ha) but those dresses lose sequins like... (insert analogy of choice... I am fresh out). It is imperative to check any thrifted sequin garment before taking it home because if any beads or sequins are already missing, it is often not worth the effort to fix but if the garment is fully intact, chances are those sequins are sewn on right proper. And I know vintage sequins can be pricey in some geographical areas (this holds true for a lot of vintage) ... however there are plenty of sequin tops in thrift stores across the country for just a few bucks each.

Yet it's one step to buy the sequins and it's another leap to actually wear them. I used to be afraid of the sparkle, worried about what people would say about me behind my back until I just got over it. Meh. Some people wear Sponge Bob Square Pants pajama bottoms to sign their mortgage papers, and I wear sequins to go for a walk. There is room for all kinds of fashion choices on this earth. Isn't that nice? My heart is warmed.

I like experimenting with sequins (here and here) but one of the easiest and chicest ways to wear some sequin is to pair them with some relaxed jeans and a nice shoe.

(thrifted silk top, h&m jeans, ID Browns shoes)

Sequins say 'I'm trying hard!' but add some worn in denim and it says 'But not too hard!'. Maybe you thought clothes don't talk but you just have to turn down the tv and listen. A dressy shoe pulls the look into a more formal direction. 56% dressy with 44% casual. It's a science. And that's the formula to wearing sequins.

(thrifted wool vest, Mossimo tee, h&m jeans and Modern Vintage Boots)