This Illustrator’s Quirky Style & Fashion Motto Is Pure Gold
Caitlin Alexander talks secondhand style and vintage finds
Written by Jessica Fields
Welcome to Style Anatomy where we dive deep into the personal style of the peeps on our style radar. From editors, to artists, to entrepreneurs, friends and more, through this series we’ll dish on what makes their style unique and share tips for building your own coveted wardrobe and personal style.
When it comes to vintage shopping, finding that perfect pair of jeans that fits like a glove, or a standout statement jacket for example, can seem like a never-ending journey. Which is exactly why, in the world of fashion and style, thrifting has become an art.
I first came across Caitlin Alexander’s style via Instagram, and was immediately enamored by her mirror selfies in quirky printed pants and cool statement jackets. But it wasn’t just her OOTD posts that kept me coming back to her page. No, what had me hooked was her effortless ability to make these vintage finds feel so modern, lived in and right on trend.
Alexander, a native Austin illustrator, is no stranger to finding the art in thrifted fashions. During our chat she recalls her first taste of thrifting and design back in high school when she crafted a denim skirt from mens jeans. Her passion for finding thrifted gems grew and by college she had an impressive collection of vintage fashions and home decor, much of which came from weekly strolls at the popular Citywide Garage Sale in Austin. With a closet, and home, full of amazing thrifted finds Alexander created her Instagram @thrift_bee to share her style. The account is a blend of one of a kind treasures from clothes, accessories and home decor. Through the social account she not only confidently shows off coveted pieces like these spring ready clogs, or these cool cream corduroy overalls, but she’s discovered the importance of ethical and sustainable fashion. Ahead we sat down with the 32 year old illustrator to talk all things thrifting and picked her brain for the best tips to creating your own unique vintage style.
How would you describe your style?
“I feel like my wardrobe has a mix of aesthetics, that work well together to make a closet that is uniquely "me." If you peeked your head in there though, I think some notable themes would be novelty sweaters, colorful prints, comfortable and casual quirky clothes, and lots of vintage. I've been described as an "eccentric artist" before, which I appreciate. I guess that's probably a good way to sum it all up!”
I love your motto "A majority second-hand life", can you explain what that means and your stance on ethical fashion?
“Thank you! I chose to put that in my profile bio because I wanted to emphasize that you can make secondhand purchases in a lot of areas in your life– not just fashion. A good portion of my furniture, home decor, and even books are thrifted, vintage, hand-me-downs, or handmade. That said, shopping ethically can be tricky. First and foremost, the pressure shouldn't be on the consumer to enact change. Honestly, I’m not sure how else we can get the companies to listen to what we want from them, except perhaps ending lobbying so we can elect a government that will actually put laws in place to protect the environment and workers. But for now, I think those who have the means to protest with their wallets should probably do so.”
What are your tips for finding great second-hand pieces?
“If you're buying online, don't hesitate to bother the seller with lots of questions about sizing and material! I always ask for flat measurements (pit-to-pit, waist, front rise, etc) and for things like sweaters, whether or not it's itchy. Most people are nice and willing to help you out. When searching for something on a resale app, think of every possible way someone may describe the item and do multiple keyword combination searches. As you go, get more and more vague. You'd be amazed at how incorrectly some things are labeled– and those items are usually the ones that are priced lower, too!”
What are your go-to styling tips?
“Wear what you want! Following trends, especially in recent years as they tend to speed up faster and faster, is just going to result in a closet that stresses you out. I like to shop instead by my own little set of guidelines. And everyone should have something similar. My most important things when looking for a piece are texture/fabric, print and color. I prefer natural fabrics, and I love prints and patterns, but as an artist, can be really picky and particular about what makes for a beautiful design. Although I don't have a specific color palette I’m definitely drawn more to a certain color story. Whatever it is, be real with yourself if the piece you're thinking about buying is something that really fits the wardrobe you built for yourself, or are you just interested because it's on trend and a really good find? If it's just a cool treasure but not for you, know that it'll make someone else really happy when they find it. You don't have to collect it just because it's there.
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