Hey all! It’s Caitlin from Wore Out and if you’re anything like me the constant cold, grey, wet mess that is winter in Vermont can be totally draining. Drawing inspiration and energy from your surroundings can be nearly impossible when the windchill is -30 and everything is coated in a thick layer of salt grime instead of snow.

Inject some excitement back into your wardrobe and your psyche with these 5 “must have” pieces from Downtown Threads. Perfect for layering and easy to integrate into your existing wardrobe these pieces are the ticket to kicking your winter wardrobe blues without breaking the bank.

Pretty Prints; the perfect way to take an outfit from blah to blam!This vintage blouse immediately caught my eye, I love how the bold floral print works with the silhouettes of the ladies and gentlemen in their finery. Printed blouses are the perfect way to add interest to an otherwise bland outfit and Downtown Threads has a huge selection of prints from polka dots to Hawaiian and everything in between. Try layering a printed blouse under a great vest or blazer with leggings or skinny jeans and your favorite boots, or pair with your favorite  high waisted skirt, colored tights and pumps for a twist on classic workplace wear.

Solid Staples; you can never have too many!Showcase your new riding boots or ankle booties with this universally flattering tea length skirt. The rich brown color and thick corduroy makes this skirt perfect for cooler weather wear. Corduroy not your thing? Downtown Threads has similar length skirts in solid jersey, bold plaids and vintage floral prints. Look to pair these with cable knit tights, your favorite denim button up and a killer pair of booties for a look that’s equally comfortable & chic.

Ponchos & Capelets; Surefire ChicWouldn’t this capelet look perfect with the warm brown tea length skirt from above? This capelet and the aforementioned brown skirt would be stunning paired with a slouchy tan boot and 70′s inspired floppy felt hat! Not sure how to make a caplet work for you, it’s easier than you think with these tips:

• Ponchos & capelets can add volume up top so make sure to balance out your look with a streamlined bottom like leggings or skinny jeans with riding boots
• Under your poncho keep the layers to a minimum to avoid looking bulky and ensure the capelet/poncho falls correctly
• Don’t over complicate it. Let your poncho/capelet take center stage by pairing it with classic wardrobe staples and a bold accessories like a large watch, bangles or cocktail ring.

Classic Outwear; it’s classic for a reason
I’m always looking for pieces the mix classic silhouettes with unexpected fabrics like leather, satin or corduroy and incorporate fabrics with bold, unusual prints. The classic cut/style ensures your piece wont go out of style overnight while the texture/print add interest and individuality. Everyone needs a blazer in their fashion arsenal and this one is pretty sexy. Great as a layering piece or outerwear this blazer pulls double duty making it worth investing in (but since it’s on consignment at Downtown Threads you can snap it up for under $30!) Pair this leather blazer with high-waisted dark wash flares, a crisp white button up and a gold collar or statement necklace for a updated take on a classically chic look.

Spring Ahead; pieces to wear now and laterWhen I first saw this skirt I joked to Carolyn, who curates the B-Side at Downtown Threads, that it looked like something my mom wore in the 80′s. Without missing a beat Carolyn turned to me and said, “you’re probably right but you’re not going style it the way your mom did, so it’s not the same.”  How right she is.

Make this floral midi skirt your own this winter with a chunky knit sweater, thick tights, oxford ankle booties and perfectly mused topknot. In the spring and summer loose the layers and show another side of this sunny skirt with a cropped linen top, leather sandals and woven bag.

Hopefully these pieces have provided a bit of light at the end of the winter fashion blues tunnel for you. Stop in Downtown Threads to stock up on pieces like these and everything in between and while you’re there don’t forget to mention this post!

Hi all, it’s Caitlin from Wore Out! With less than a week till Christmas we’re in the holiday homestretch and there’s no better time of year to get all gussied up! Cast aside that ugly Christmas sweater and don something a bit more festive for your next holiday party! Downtown Threads has a huge selection of party dresses, whether you’re shopping for a formal frock or a casual classic they have it all.

This two tone silk dress with its subtle polka dot pattern is perfect for any holiday party your attending. The length and cut are classic while the neckline adds the perfect wow factor.

Glam it up: add a pair of textured tights, sexy booties, an attention grabbing clutch and a great shrug/jacket (like above) for the perfect party look

Dress it down: pair with a chunky knit cardigan, classic riding boots and a felt hat for the perfect boho-holiday look for any laid back gathering

This vintage off-white lace dress with real fur trim is what dreams are made of. The Downtown Threads staffers have taken to calling it a “Cinderella dress” because while a number of people have tried it on, it hasn’t been the perfect fit on anyone yet. Maybe this dress is waiting for you?

Glam it up: for a polished party look pair this dress with a classic blazer, nude stockings, gold cuff bracelet and a pair of sparkly gold heels

Dress it down: give this dress an edgy festive feel by adding black moto boots, textured tights, stacks of bangles and a fun leather jacket

The red maxi dress with gold embellishments is hands down one of my favorite pieces at Downtown Threads (and that’s saying a lot). It’s so Sgt. Pepper I can’t even handle it.

Glam it up: this dress is so fabulous all you need is a pair of velvet Mary Janes or gold pumps, smokey eyes and a perfect top knot and you’ll light up any room you enter

Dress it down: keep it casual chic with a faux fur vest, classic heeled black boots and a messy side bun or beachy waves with a gold headband

With a subtly sexy neckline and forgiving ruching that makes indulging a little less guilty this dress is perfect for the holidays. I love how the rich chocolate brown silk catches the light from every angle. The trim on the cute teal jacket matches the dress perfectly and reminds me of something that Heidi of the Alps would wear during the holidays.

Glam it up: break the rules and pair this brown dress with black textured tights, gold pumps and a faux fur wrap or stole

Dress it down: try wearing this dress as a top; layer a maxi or midi skirt over the dress for a more casual look, pair with flats and a colorful clutch

This black cocktail dress is simply stunning in person. It’s everything you love about  80′s fashion without looking dated or tired.

Glam it up: turn up the volume with maroon or gold heels with black opaque stockings and a rich velvet blazer

Dress it down: a pair of smoking slippers in a great print and a cropped sweater give this look a casual feel without loosing any of the wow factor

Winter white can be tricky but don’t let that stop you from trying this gorgeous classic. This white dress has a classic silhouette and subtle detailing that ensures you’ll be able to wear it to holiday parties for years to come.

Glam it up: play up the sparkle in the gold cardigan and pair this dress with gold shoes and maroon tights for a white hot holiday look

Dress it down: swap the gold cardigan for a boyfriend blazer, cozy plaid scarf, and shearling lined ankle boots for the perfect New England chic holiday outfit

Have a safe and chic holiday season!

xoxo, Wore Out & Downtown Threads

Hey there, it’s Caitlin from Wore Out again! The holidays are right around to corner which means winter isn’t far behind. Don’t let  the winter weather and freezing temperatures cramp your style; Downtown Threads has everything you need to stay warm and fashionable!

When I think winter I think layering. Sweaters are one of my most used layering pieces when the temperatures start to drop. Not only do sweaters keep you warm and cozy but they’re incredible versatile.

Pairing a bulkier sweater with skinny jeans or leggings is the perfect way to balance out the look.  Attending a fun holiday party? Sweaters with chic embellishments like the one Emina is wearing on the left are sure to wow a crowd when Paired with a booties, hotpants and tights. Trying to transition your favorite fall pieces into winter? A vintage cardigan is the perfect layering piece and Downtown Threads has a ton in a rainbow of colors for men and women. A quick scan of their cardigans reveled vintage Dior, IZOD and Lacoste.  Style your perfect cardi over a dress with tights and boots or wear it belted over one of your favorite maxi skirts or leggings with booties.

Sweaters with funky prints aren’t just for Bill Cosby anymore. Give these flashy prints and patterns a try with leggings, knee high boots and a beret for a classic and casual winter look.

Another key layering piece in my winter wardrobe is my collection of wool shirts. I wear them with everything  from jean shorts and tights to high waisted skirts. They provide tons of warmth without any bulk and Downtown Threads has the best selection of colors, patterns and sizes for men and women. They also have a wide selection of vintage wool Pendleton shirts at prices so reasonable that you wont have to just pick one.

Add warmth and style to your look by layering a chic leather jacket over your Pendleton button up. The shop is full of leather jackets of all sizes, colors, and styles that will fit any budget.

Leather not your thing? Don’t worry the B-Side at Downtown Threads is stocked with vintage fur, wool, shearling and tapestry coats; here are a few of my favorites.

Classic meets chic with this coat. Lined with shearling for ultimate warmth and comfort it’s as practical as it is stylish. Pair with a bright red beret and gloves for an even bolder fashion statement.

As if the pattern wasn’t reason enough to love this coat just look at the collar! Dramatic without being over the top, it’s the perfect combination of form and function. Imagine how stunning it would look with mustard skinnies and brown booties!

Perfect for your glamerous New Years Eve Bash or for drinks downtown this vintage fur coat is the picture of winter glam.

Trust me when I say that Downtown Threads has everything you need for your winter wardrobe. So stop by and stock up before it’s too late! Oh and don’t forget that Downtown Threads is now open at 11am Monday thru Saturday, so now you have an extra hour to get your shop on!

If you love unique jewelry, come down to Downtown Threads to pick up some funky animal rings! Although these rings do have a vintage feel about them they are brand new. We carry new clothing, jewelry, sunglasses and accessories when we find unique stuff that we know our customers will love.

This is only a small fraction of the rings we carry in the store, but you can buy a few of them online here: Rings for sale.

Vintage, funky jewelry, accessories – Downtown Threads – 73 Church Street, Burlington, VT

Like every year, Halloween has crept up on us quietly.  If you’re like us, you’re still scouring the thrift store racks, looking for a creative and affordable costume idea.  Don’t let procrastination reduce you to a sexy nurse or a white-sheet ghost.  Break away from the spirit of Halloweens passed and treat yourself to a tricked out costume.  Browse our favorite Burlington thrift store, keeping these ideas in mind… or come up with your own!

Freudian Slip: Wear a slip* of any color, but preferably white. Write out Freudian terms in bold letters all over the slip. Here are some suggestions for Freudian terms:

1.)  Id, ego, super-ego
2.)  Primal scream
3.)   Anal character
4.)  Oedipus complex
5.)  Family romance
6.)  Free association
7.)  Penis envy
8.)  Pleasure principle
9.)  Psychosexual development

Hipster (insert classic horror figure): Really, you can just take any of the classic Halloween costumes—Dracula, Frankenstein, Zombie, ect.—and add a pair of skinny jeans* oversized eye glasses*. Remember to put on a not-quite-smirk, not-quite-frown face and watch the squares fall. How ironic.

Weather Forecaster: Take a plain white T-shirt* and attach bundles of cotton balls in the form of clouds. Below, write the following: “Ask me the weather!”. Then, when a person asks, you reply: “Cloudy, with a chance of rain…” and proceed to squirt them with a hidden spray bottle.

Mad Men: The 1950s are so in style these days! Get on the Mad Man mania craze and doll up in wrist-length gloves, billowy skirts, feminine blouses and stiletto heels. Full skirts, soft shoulders, and a tight waist are a must—and who doesn’t look good in that? Guys, don’t fret, the 1950s were a fabulous time of grey-flannel suits and penny loafers, with a cigar in hand of course.

French Kiss: Wrap yourself in aluminum tinfoil or a bright, silver metallic suit and wear a beret. You’re a French Kiss, and feel free to use those privileges.

For emergencies: Dress as you normally do, and when you’re asked what your costume is, reply that you are a werewolf. When they inquire about your lack of scary attire, simply say it’s not a full moon.

* denotes items easily found at Downtown Threads on Church St. 

Happy Halloween! –Jordie, Lany and Toby

VA-VA-VOOM!

*Hey again; it’s Caitlin from Wore Out. I can’t believe Halloween is right around the corner! If you’re like me and still undecided about what you’re going to wear out for a night of mischief this All Hallows’ Eve drop by Downtown Threads. They have a ton of ready to wear costumes for men and women and if you don’t find something you love the Downtown Threads staff will help you piece together your own kick-ass costume from their racks of vintage and contemporary clothes. Downtown Threads also have a ton of accessories including wigs, gloves, eye patches, masks, swords, glow in the dark guns and so much more.

everything’s better with a mustache right? let your imadgeination vogue wild

If you’ve ever wanted to dress up as the Queen of Pop this is the year! Downtown Threads has tons of 80′s wear including a huge selection of  Madonna approved finger-less gloves and lingerie. 80′s Madonna not your thing?  Recreating a look from almost any point in Madonna’s illustrious career (including Evita!) is easy given the amount of ah-mazing vintage and accessories Downtown Threads has to offer. I’ve never been a huge fan of store bought costumes but I love how Downtown Threads spiced up this Native American Chic costume with a great vintage western belt and animal print purse. Adding these touches allows you to make it your own and removes any chance of you running into someone with the exact same costume.

This is one of my favorite costumes that the Downtown Threads staff put together. The metallic pattern shirt has the perfect downtown chic vibe while the suspenders keep it fun and the classic green Levi’s complete this hipster gator getup.

Don’t forget to tag your Downtown Threads costume and accessories when you upload your Halloween photos to Facebook, we love to see what everyone’s wearing!

What are your plans this Halloween? Do you already have your costume picked out or are you still deciding?

*full disclosure* Downtown Threads compensates me in the form of merchandise/store credit for these posts. I’ve been a long time shopper at Downtown Threads and love their style but the words and opinions expressed are all my own.

Hey there, it’s Caitlin from Wore Out! Each month I’ll be posting over here on the Downtown Threads blog about the latest happenings and hottest fashions in the store.* The leaves have started to change in Burlington and hints of frost are in the air; fall is here and this season is all about layering! One classic layering piece I’ve been incorporating into my fall wardrobe is the classic denim jacket. 

The long standing gold standard in denim jackets have been vintage American-made Levi’s and Downtown Threads just got a ton in!

These pristine condition, vintage deadstock with original tags, American-made, Levi’s jean jackets are ah-mazing! Downtown Threads has a variety of sizes in numerous styles, including flannel lined (my fav!). 

Made in the late 80′s – early 90′s these prized pieces of denim are worth the $90 to $120 investment. If these jackets are a bit out of your price range don’t worry, Downtown Threads also has a widevariety of jean jackets (including a light washed one with a ruffled front, that I love!) that will fit any budget.

All set on jackets this fall? Downtown Threads just started carrying a classic collection of TOKYObay Watches. This fall a smart watch is a must have accessory.

A great watch is the perfect finishing touch on a menswear inspired look or a casual 70′s inspired midi skirt and blouse. Based out of San Francisco, TOKYObay watches are the perfect mix of classical and vintage styles. I love the clean lines and classic inspired silhouettes. Ranging from $80 to $95 these are the watches to wear this season but will be classic for years to come.

I can totally see myself wearing this Cavalry watch, the double wrap band is so chic and the face reminds me of the clock from Alice in Wonderland. The bright red band is totally on trend and the perfect way to spice up casual weekend looks or break up monochromatic ensembles. TOKYObay watches come in a variety of styles and colors, so if you have a specific style in mind make sure to talk to the staff about custom orders!

What fall accessories have you been wearing? 

*full disclosure* Downtown Threads provides me with merchandise/store credit for my posts. I’ve been a long time shopper at Downtown Threads and love their style but the outfits styled and words and opinions expressed are all my own. 

One of my favorite fashion trends this fall is 70’s inspired Sophisticated Bohemian. This look is a balance between free-spirited style and classic separates. If you’re the kind of chic who loves wearing sheer or light flirty blouses in the summer, don’t give them up this fall! Pair them with a cute neutral blazer, cardigan, vest, or light jacket.

One of the most important essential pieces to your fall wardrobe is a light jacket. Jackets are versatile and can transition your free spirited summer look into sophisticated fall Bohemian. Right now there is a great selection of fall jackets in Downtown Thread’s second room, which vary from cute vintage suede and leather jackets to light casual jackets.

Some perfect accessories to match this Bohemian look are romantic wide brimmed hats and uniquely decorated fedoras. Each of these styles can be worn as part of a casual daytime look, or dressed up to complement evening attire.  Hats can also be personalized to complement your own style and personality. Some fun ways to personalize would be to add a feather, some beads or buttons, a scarf, ribbon or bandana.

Other aspects of the Bohemian look include thick leather belts, chunky knits, satchel handbags, fringed jackets, crocheted tops, long necklaces, feather earrings, long skirts, embroidery, and mixing subtle prints.  If you’re in the mood to rock this casual yet sophisticated Bohemian look, come to Downtown Threads for some inspiration!

I have added so many new accessories recently and of course I’m a champ about uploading pictures to the facebook page but sometimes I do neglect my blog page here.

So from owl necklaces, camera necklaces, camera rings, apple and pear shaped watch pendants, coy fish rings, octopus pendants, wrist watches, snap bracelet watches, tons of sunglasses particularly wayfarers particularly in neon colors and… I don’t know what else, here are some pictures.

Because Downtown Threads is your source for the coolest retro accessories and vintage clothes.

Well, it’s gonna happen, it’s been decided, you have chosen. The UVM film club and Downtown Threads are presenting Ferris Bueller’s Day off and Beetle Juice at 7pm at Lafayette 108 on the UVM campus, it’ll cost you zero dollars (free)…

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=106943536054111