Come Spring/Summer I live in dresses; they’re comfortable, versatile enough to wear with heels or flip flops, and perfectly feminine. Here are three dresses that I think are perfect for playing dress up this sprin

left: minimalist chic, just add chandelier earrings, beachy waves, and color blocked wedges and you’re ready to celebrate spring . center: Paris meets Pan-Am, you may be surprised by how far a silk scarf and a classic pair of sunnies can take you (and your look). right: Lady Lola, if your promiscuous friend from college raided your grandma’s wardrobe… sexy hot pink lace doilies

It seems like this time every year I start out on a hunt for the perfect white lace dress and this boho dress with tiered lace is darn near perfect. Sheer enough to be sexy but conservative enough to wear to brunch with oxfords and a cute cardigan this dress is a perfect addition to your spring wardrobe. Bring out the tougher side of this frilly dress with a moto jacket and ankle boots (above) or play up the boho vibe with a funky fedora and scarf turned sash (below)

Don’t write this beige knit dress off at first glance, it’s the ultimate layering piece and should be a staple of your spring wardrobe. Toss it on over a a bikini, grab your straw hat, and head to the beach or add heels, a blazer, and a  statement jewelry for a casual chic ensemble that was made for cocktails on the roof deck.

Get a jump on your spring style and head to Downtown Threads and check out all of their killer dresses. All pieces photographed are currently available at Downtown Threads (except for the silk, leopard print blouse above; I bought that as soon as I took it off the mannequin.)

Speaking of shopping… I’ve been a loyal Downtown Threads customer since they opened their doors and long before I started Wore Out. So while I do receive compensation for my posts, all the content is my own. I say what I think and wear what I want.

Caitlin Pierce writes Wore Out, a life and style blog based in Burlington, Vermont. When she’s not blogging Caitlin can be found thrifting, exploring her adopted home state of Vermont, enjoying wine with friends or relaxing at home with her cat Gus. Follow along on Twitter, Facebook & Pinterest.

Hey, it’s Caitlin from Wore Out * and I don’t know about you but I’m done with winter and have already started to warm up my wardrobe with tribal prints, chic florals and maxi skirts in a rainbow of colors and patterns. With all the beautiful weather we’ve been having in I can’t help but get excited for summer. Burlington comes alive in the summer and so do the fashions you see on Church Street. Turn heads downtown this spring and summer with these bold patterns and fun prints.

Southwestern/Tribal prints are here to stay. Opt for pieces with unexpected details like studs or exposed hardware to keep your look fresh. This tribal print dress is a perfect example of how details like the braiding around the neckline and the “mullet” hemline can turn a sundress into something so much more. Pair this piece with bright sandals and a colorful sun hat for a perfect beach cover-up or jazz it up with color blocked heels and a cropped black blazer. Wear this statement tee with your favorite pair of cutoffs, leather sandals and a funky woven bag for a perfect weekend look or dress it up with a cropped pastel skinny jeans, statement earrings and great wedges.

Safari/Animal Prints, breathe new life into animal prints by playing up the safari vibe with pieces in kahki or olive and pairing them with unexpected accessories like peep toe ankle booties, heart shaped sunnies, or a neon envelop clutch. This sleeveless vintage jumpsuit is ah-mazing! The jungle flora and fauna print with zebra stripe accents is just too perfect. Easy to dress up with a bold waist belt, gold bangles and peep toe pumps or down with gladiator inspired sandals and a funky straw hat this jumpsuit is sure to bring out your animal instincts.

Florals are everywhere, from big bold blooms to delicate rose patterns I can’t get enough! Downtown Threads has a variety of florals including great one of a kind vintage pieces. This silk romper adorn with tropical orchids and irises is cute dressed down with a vintage cardigan and cute oxfords or dressed up with a moto jacket and heels for a night out.This 60′s mod style dress features a bold print that’s sure to have all eyes on you. Detailing around the collar and wrists add a fun touch to this classic silhouette with a fun print. I’d love to see this floral frock with tan moccasins and a bold statement necklace, perfect for brunch or drinks on the deck with friends.

Brights/Color Blocking are as hot as ever. Pair orange pieces with reds or pinks for a dramatic, on trend look or mix it up by color blocking cooler jewel tones.This bright wrap dress would is the perfect cover up for your next trip to the shore! Finish off your look with a natural straw sun hat and sandals for the perfect boho beach babe look.

Abstracts and Watercolor Prints, especially on vintage pieces can really make a splash this spring and summer.I’ve always loved purple and green together so this vintage dress with a funky abstract print was right up my alley. I went all out with the 60′s vibe and paired this look with a blush vest but this dress would look great simply belted with a pair of short cowboy boots, wedges, or flats. The soft abstract print on this sheer 60′s blouse captivated me. The print totally changes in the light and reminded me of a watercolor painting. I wanted to keep things light and ethereal so I paired the blouse with a sheer purple maxi skirt (with built in shorts). Play up the blouses delicate print by wearing it with “tougher” pieces like cutoffs and motorcycle boots, dyed high-waisted denim, or leather shorts for a sharp contrast.

What prints are you loving for spring/summer? What printed pieces are you hoping to add to your warm weather wardrobe?

*honesty is the best policy - while Downtown Threads compensates me for these post the views expressed are entirely my own.

Maxi dresses aren’t going anywhere when it comes to spring and summer fashion and neon is hotter than ever. Pair this perfectly pink maxi with a mint cropped top and bold tribal print scarf for an outfit that makes a splash. Perfect for springtime music festivals or dancing on top of a Magic Hat float in the Mardi Gras parade this look combines some of the hottest spring trends with a classic piece of vintage.

This stunning skirt is perfect for whatever Mardi Gras festivities you have planned. For such a unique piece it’s surprisingly easy to style. Dress it up by pairing it with a silk blouse, blazer and heels or go the casual route with a purple crop top and plenty of Mardi Gras beads.You really have to see this skirt’s print in person to really appreciate how iridescent it is. The bold pattern skirt has green, purple and a gold sheen but is the perfect piece to add to your spring wardrobe. Don’t let the pattern and vibrant colors fool you this skirt will be perfect with anything from a tank top and sun hat to heels and a sheer blouse.I’ve always thought burn out tees were sexy so when I paired one with a pair of gold hot pants the sex appeal went threw the roof. To scale back the sexiness a bit I used a top (that buttons up the back) as a cardigan. For chiller celebrations I suggest layering black pattern tights under these hot pants and pairing with  flat black boots or combat boots. Speaking of hot gold pieces… this sequin skirt/tube top is a perfect piece for your Mardi Gras celebrations. For a spin on the traditional Mardi Gras color palette I opted to pair this disco ball skirt with a beautiful vintage top! The detailing on this sleeveless top is as beautiful as it is colorful making it perfect for celebrations of all types. Post Mardi Gras look to pair it with black cigarette pants and an over sized gold envelope clutch for a classic look or with your favorite sheer chiffon skirt, messy top knot and sky high wedges for a romantic twist.

Get the most out of your Mardi Gras buys this year by opting for pieces that capture the spirit of the celebration and current trends. Look for maxi dresses and skirt in bold prints and bright hues, green and gold pieces that will be easy to mix and match with your spring wardrobe and of course keep your eyes peeled for vintage.

Caitlin is a vintage loving, fashion blogging burlingtonian; follow her exploits on twitter, facebook and pinterest.

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!

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

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!

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

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

*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.