Lots of smaller footed folks have asked for masculine shoe recommendations in the non-sneaker shoes arena that won’t break the bank. I’ve picked up a few more ideas since my last post in May. 

My biggest recommendation is to do the thrifty thrift! Men’s feet used to be smaller, so there are some gorgeous vintage finds out there for next to nothing. Blake got these bad boys for $4. Bobby from Boston had an incredible selection of smaller men’s shoes that ranged from 30 - 60$. If you make visiting your neighborhood thrift store a regular activity, something fantastic will pop up.

Onward! I chose pretty spring colors, because I can:

Bass Women’s Ely Shoes 

I’ve had these Bass bucks from Bass for 2 years now, and they are still one of my favorites and one of my most vesatile pairs of shoes. They fill an in-between space from casual to fancy. They come in several colors and contrast soles. Retail is $69, but you can usually snag them on sale or on Ebay for $40 or so. (See me wearing mine here!)

Loafers are never a bad addition to your wardrobe. Equally at home at the office or with some shorts on a summer stroll. Women’s Hayden Loafer, $85 at Sperry Top-sider.

Every fashionisto needs at least one pair of fashion boots! Clarks Women’s Desert Boots, $94.95 at Infinity Shoes

I always dislike how boy’s shoes have a rounder toe and chunkier heels than men’s. As if they still need help walking past toddler-hood. However, J.Crew has some of the less obnoxiously shaped boys’ shoes in the most fabulous of colors! These are the Kids’ Suede Bucks with Contrast Sole, $98. They’ve also got pretty nice wingtips for $118, though I’m less convinced of the chunky design in the dressier shoe.

These are so pretty! Can’t speak to their quality. But… WANT! Halogen® ’Lindy’ Oxford, $99.95 at Nordstrom

Cole Haan has some fabulous choices this season. I tried a pair of their Skylar Oxfords and found them very comfortable! They would make for a great dress shoe. The leather sole feels like it would last for ever. The black ones are currently on sale for $179.95. They also have the Alissa Oxford (pictured above) — the same thing with a rubber sole a different kind of leather (nubuck) in brighter colors. Those are now running as low as $88 on Amazon.

In other news I crossed these Steve Madden oxfords off the list when I tried them on IRL. They feel like a flimsy piece of felt glued together by a child. There’s women’s clothing for ya. 

Am I missing anything? Add it in the comments!

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By guest blogger, C. Haber Dash

Let’s face it: living the dapper life can be hard on the bank account. We all drool over those bespoke suits and super sexy wingtips. But not everyone can make a habit of acquiring such finery on a regular basis. Perhaps you have a few nice items but, rely —  like most of us — on the chance treasure found at the local thrift. That’s certainly how I roll. So how do I take my few essential nice outfits and make them new and dashing with every wear? I shake it up with the little details: the accessories that dazzle and stun the admirer each and every time!

Cufflinks, tie bars, and mini-bow ties are a few of the many accessories that can set the dapper chap apart. And in fashion forward NYC, it’s nice to be the one who stands out from a city of well-dressed hoi polloi. A great outfit can look new and fresh with every wear if proper attention is paid to accessories. There’s no doubt about it: tie bars are back! (Why they ever fell out of favor is beyond me!) Besides being dapper as fuck, tie bars are great conversation pieces — particularly vintage ones that come in a variety of styles. Simple and classy ones can be found at most department stores and shops these days, and they can be quite elegant. But I encourage you all to take a gander at the local thrift for some classic pieces that usually come with a story.

I picked up the gems pictured above on a day trip up the Hudson. Just an hour or so away from the city, a small town like Cold Spring or New Paltz can offer a treasure trove of affordable ($3-$5 each) and unique accents pieces for the well-dressed dandy. The main streets of these little hamlets are lined with antique shops full of this stuff. Where else can you find a tie bar of a boy and his dog on a raft, or barber scissors; or my favorite: the telegraph?

Of course, my love for the little things in life includes cufflinks too. If you’ve got a shirt with French cuffs (if not, get several stat!), then you will want a nice collection of cufflinks. They don’t have to cost a fortune either. If the pickings are slim in your neck of the woods, head out of town for a day and pillage small-town America where demand for such finery isn’t quite as intense, and the prices can be dirt cheap! Besides looking sensational, they are a tool of seduction. Sit across from your date, elbow on bar/table, chin resting on palm, cufflink exposed, and watch them melt.

My thoughts about mini-bow ties are a bit more daring, as the clip-on tie debate still rages. In principle, I am opposed to clip on ties, with one exception: the mid-century mini clip-on bow tie. Unlike the typical butterfly bow tie — which deservedly continues to reign supreme — these little guys are more akin to the less ubiquitous straight/thistle bow. Popular through much of the mid-twentieth century, and measuring anywhere from 2 ½-5 inches long and 1-1.5 inches wide, these clip-ons should be worn with confidence and perhaps a sense of irony. Simply stated, they are just too damn adorable and wearing one may result in endless fawning and cheek pinching (wearer be warned). Also, it’s nice to get an old timey tie box to put these little treasures in.

When I am not fretting about the future of humanity, or why my kitties meow and cry all the time, thoughts of other important matters such as how to accent my outfit tomorrow, or what my next adventure of rural thrifting/antiquing may bring makes my heart whole again. With a solid collection of tie bars, cuff links, and mini bow ties, I can rest assured that with each new day, I will be able to assemble a fierce new ensemble that is both empowering and complimentary to my budget. And I hope you can too!

(Cover photo from dandyportraits.blogspot.com)

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Fit For a Femme finally clued me into the most magical place on the East Coast: Bobby from Boston in the South End. (I know I’ve been here forever and she just moved here, shuddup) After buying out that store, they told me I should check out the warehouse in Lynn. So I kidnapped my friend Aimee and made my way to the house of vintage clothing gods. The collection is mostly men’s clothes, but the warehouse had an entire room of women’s clothing, including a few kilts and wild sequined dresses. Prices are incredible for the quality you’re getting; shoes were the biggest trap for me. When you have vintage leather men’s shoes that actually fit you and price in the $50 range, it can be hard to keep it together. And of course they had rows and rows of button-ups, pants, jackets, suit vests. Some T-shirts too. I’m amazed I got out alive. 

Overalls

Baseball uniforms!

Vintage sneaks

In case you have a steampunk fetish

The room where I lost my shoe virginity. Again.

These bucks were beauties. And too small for me. Someone should go snatch them!

Successfully tried on the most ridiculous thing I could find: the curling sweater. p.s. totally bought those shoes, and the bow tie is from the South End location. Win.

He started it, I swear!

Tie bins

Another shot of my new shoes!

*Oh, and for the record, this is not a sponsored post. I just love them.

BOBBY FROM BOSTON

South End:
19 Thayer St. 
Boston, MA 02118
617-423-9299

Warehouse in Lynn:
545 Washington St. Lynn, MA
Call Ed 603-502-9882 for appointments (Or you can text him too. He’s chill.)

UPDATE 2/20/13: Sadly, my shoes started peeling the second I wore them. Is this a thing? Apparently it can happen if shoes get old. BUT they let me return them at their Thayer Street location and were very apologetic. So I still love them. Just thought I should share the full story.

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Thrift stores like Buffalo Exchange are an excellent place to start for cheap, high quality outerwear. Here’s Allex Knight rocking her $16 find. (Thanks, DapperQ, for introducing me to her!)

Vintage Coat: Buffalo Exchange ($16!)
Sweater: H&M
Tank Top: Urban Outfitters*
Jeans: Black LEVI Skinny Jeans
Snapback: OBEY
Glasses: Urban Outfitters*

(Photo Cred: Shaina Chin)

*Urban Outfitters donates money to anti-gay campaigns. Learn more about their actions here. Buffalo Exchange and Ragstock are great hipster alternatives

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On Tuesday I covered my pre-thrift guidelines that will help prepare you for a successful thrift outing. As I actually thrift the majority of my wardrobe, I’ve discovered which items are reliable finds. It can be easy to feel frustrated about fit in a thrift store, because there is no universal sizing! (I know, you’re thinking… “Is there ever?!”) Sizing in thrift stores is perhaps more complicated because the clothes come from different decades, and sizes have changed over time. But don’t fear! The items I’ve listed below tend to be better stocked (in a variety of sizes/colors/patterns), more withstanding to previous long-term wear, and most likely to look good on a variety of body types.

Pencil Skirts

Usually stocked in tons of colors/sizes. They’ve been a thing throughout the decades so they’re always well stocked (and often have POCKETS). Look for 100% wool. 

My friend S, rocking out on my back stairs. Complete with recycling and pumpkins.

Velvet Pencil Skirt: $2.00 at Village Discount Outlet (Chicago, IL) 
White button down: $1.00 at a yard sale (Oberlin, OH)
Floral/Paisley Scarf: my mother’s 1970s stock of wonder.
Boots: airstreamapparel Etsy shop
Peacoat: Gap (her own; “on sale!” she says)

Short-sleeved Button Downs
Long sleeved shirts are so great, but they’re maybe my least favorite articles of clothing to shop for. If you don’t have the right shoulder/sleeve fit… they can look sloppy. Also they lose their primness after a few years. Most of the thrifty long-sleeved button-ups you’ll find are fairly worn. However! Most thrift stores have short-sleeved button-ups a-plenty. Fewer folks wear them. They’re better stocked. And more likely to fit you. 

My friend Sara

Multi-Colored Button-Up: $4.50 at Goodwill (Cambridge, MA) 

Oversized Sweaters
Need I say more? They’re meant to be cozy, baggy, and just a little goofy. Keep an eye out for cashmere, chunky knits, and handmade products. A particularly good present for a cuddler. 

Sara again, doped out on Starbursts.

Hunter Green Sweater: $3.80 at Village Discount Outlet (Chicago, IL)
Short-Sleeved Button Down: $2.00 Village Discount Outlet (Chicago, IL)
Collar Buttons (actually decorated bobby pins): Modcloth, Gift.

Overalls

Most commercial stores don’t sell overalls anymore. So if you want a pair, thrift stores are your friend. Also. If you’re somewhat small in stature (like me) try looking in the teens/kid’s section (even if you have a donk)… it’s cheaper and often carries cool patterns.

(from bluecollarcatwalk.com, modebaroque.blogspot.com, and urbanbushbabies.com)

Can overalls get any more chic? …I didn’t buy these! But! Unique Thrift in Cleveland has an entire section devoted to overalls… all under $6.00!

Vests

These buddies will last forever and ever. And they generally look better with age. Tip: if it has a clasp in the back, make sure the clasp actually works! Great for layering.

My friend S looking like a hot, queer, female Marlon Brando.

White Shirt: My 16-year-old brother’s closet.
Knit Vest: $1.50 at Unique (Chicago, IL)
Green Flannel: $0.50 at a yard sale (Oberlin, OH)
Jeans: $10.00 at Goodwill (New York, NY) (her own; woaaahhh good find!)
Boots: $12.00 at Goodwill (New York, NY)

Boots

Smaller consignment shops might have a limited selection, but large thrift stores will usually have a variety of lace-ups, rainproof, knee-high, and hiking boots. Make sure the heels are sturdy and in tact/that there are no holes in the bottom of the shoe. Don’t be deterred by ugly or scraggly laces. That’s such an easy fix.

mmmm. I love boots!

 
Dark Brown Boots: $12.00 at Goodwill (New York, NY)
Black Boots: $2.50 at Junior League Thrift House (Evanston, IL)
Tan Boots: $5.00 at Village Discount Outlet (Chicago IL)

Belts, Scarves, & Ties

Just do it. Get those silky smooth pocket squares, kerchiefs, and wrap-arounds. These make fantastic presents. Some stores have grab-bags/boxes full of scarves.

(from: dressresponsiblysj.wordpress.com)

Again, didn’t buy these beauties. I realized that I only had green scarves/ties/belts and was too embarrassed to put a collection of 12 various green shades in one picture. But they usually range from $1.00- $3.00 for scarves and $0.50- $6.00 for ties/belts where I shop.

Hope this helps. Look good, stay cozy, give gifts, and pay your rent on time! Happy snappy thrifting!

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(source: frugaldrmom.blogspot.com)

By Guest Blogger, Sarah B.

I am a somewhat compulsive thrifter. My love of the thrift has grown out of a long-time addiction to tarnished gold/90’s grunge/worn-down wool and financial necessity. Now there’s no going back. While I have a petite, curvy frame, I’ve learned to thrift for a variety of bodies. The culmination of my efforts will soon result in the launch of Prospect, a body-positive online vintage store, this winter. Most of the clothes I’m featuring in part 2 will be sold at Prospect so keepyoureyespeeled. (Sonia adds: I’ll let ya know when the launch happens!) 

Until then, in the spirit of Holiday gift-giving and self-love, I’m going to break down some fashion-thrifty-how-to’s.

PRE-THRIFT GUIDELINES

1. Map out your thriftspectations before entering the store.

What are you looking to find? How much are you willing to spend on one item? How much are you willing to spend total? Don’t be too hard on yourself, but establish guidelines. That way, when you’ve got a cart full of glittery bowties, you’ll be able to step back and say. One. I will take one.

That being said… when you find something splurge-worthy. (if you can afford to…) SPLURGE. It feels so good! Really nice dress shoes. Outerwear. Something that makes you feel incredible. I have a 1950’s tea dress that makes my heart sing. I spent $65.00 on it and I feel no shame.

2. Wear long johns!

Most thrift stores don’t have fitting rooms. Wear an under layer of clothes (undershirt and leggings/gym shorts) so that you can easily try things on in the store. How else will you know if you like it?

3. Be realistic.

Will you wear this item? Will the person you’re buying for wear this item? More than once? Does the item make you feel good, or are you settling?

Understandably, a lot of folks get overwhelmed by the volume of clothes and then look in all the wrong places. I’ve seen many “I’ll- wear-it-for-something?” shrugs from new-to-thrifting friends. I call these finds “joke items.” While I love rainbow astronaut pants as much as the next person, I’m more about reliable and inexpensive day-to-day looks.

Check back Friday 12/14 for thrift items to look out for, modeled by my friends!

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Bow Ties are Cool.

That is the mantra of the Eleventh Doctor, the titular character of the BBC show “Doctor Who,” and is probably enough to convince you to dress more like this man. The abundance of warm earth tones and the professorial vibe of the doctor’s look lends itself well to autumn. You can mix and match different aspects of the doctor’s ensemble for your own seasonal look. 

The Bow Tie: I’m pretty sure the intro said it all. Whenever he can help it, the doctor is wearing a bow tie. His go-to is a narrow red bow tie, although he also wears a blue one on occasion. And for really special occasions he’ll break out the white silk bow tie.

How to incorporate this into your look:  For your everyday wear, chose wool or linen bow ties rather than silk ones; in a dark shade, with a narrow bow (batwing or a thinner semi-butterfly). Narrow cloth bow ties are more casual but equally dapper. Or for double the doctor fashion points, opt for a tweed bow tie. For formal affairs, go white silk.

High quality bow ties are hard to find sometimes. Vintage clothing stores are a good place to start, and I love the selections at High Cotton. Pictured above is the Darden Woolie Bow Tie.

(sources: J.Crew, A.P.C. - Elbow Patch Sweat, bintheknow.wordpress.com)

The Jacket: The eleventh doctor wears a well-fitted tweed jacket with elbow patches. Elbow patches are one of those delightful details, effervescent of your old college professor.

How to incorporate this into your look: Tweed jackets are an excellent addition to any fall wardrobe. See the tweed jacket selections of Topman, House of Fraser (men’s), The Outnet, and Modcloth (women’s). Or just go with the elbow patches! Many brands like H&M, Zara, and ASOS, to name a few; sell sweaters, cardigans, and blazers with elbow patches. Or if you like sewing, add patches an old sweater or blazer for a personality revamp! Here’s a DIY elbow patches tutorial. 

The Details: The doctor tends to wear slim-fit shirts with button-down collars. But the beauty lies in the details. His shirt is often a muted shade of his bow tie color. And for another nice touch, his suspenders always match his bow tie. 

A second really great element of his shirts are the contrasting cuffs. Although the only time they are fully visible is when he gets dressed, you can seeing them peaking out though his sleeves throughout the series. The doctor’s cuffs are a darker shade and ringed, similar to the cuffs on a letterman jacket. It’s a nice little burst of color and a fun detail. 

How to incorporate this into your look: The exact shirt the doctor wears was made and sold by UK designer Paul Smith. It was part of a limited edition collection in 2010 and is no longer available. But for a similar style, look for the colors of your accessories in a muted tone. Also for slim fit shirts with cuff or collar contrast details. Try Claudio Lugli, Hugo Boss, Dockers, Brooks Brothers. Finally, don’t underestimate the value of a good pair of suspenders! His are a simple clip on; easily picked up at Topman or American Apparel.

I stumbled upon this dapper queer over the interwebs named Maddie and then discovered that she lives in my town! Woohoo! Like most of us, she has trouble finding men’s clothes that fit really well. But with some patient thrifting, she came across these items. Also, if for no other reason than that redheads are adorable, vote for Maddie’s Saint Harridan Entry! 

Shirt: “Dependable Cleaners” employee shirt. She says, “I do not know how it came into my possession. Rolling up the light blue sleeves adds a nice casual yet sophisticated touch; especially with the brown tie.”
Bow Tie: Goodwill
Vest: Garment District

Yesss. Some great finds at vintage/thrift stores and H&M boys. Could Amanda BE any more queerspiring?

Shirt: H&M boys
Jacket: Thrifted, tags removed
Blasses: Vintage store in Toronto called Black Market
Backpack: Army Navy Deals
Watch: 80’s Casio, thrifted

Amanda’s Tumblr: photo.tumblr.com

p.s. meet-ups tomorrow and thursday!!!