Blog: Crossroads Style

I’m a California girl newly introduced to the chilly winters of Strasbourg, France, and I didn’t realize I’d need a gilet for winter. In fact, I didn’t really know what a gilet was until I started following cold-weather style and learned a gilet is the fashion secret for winter warmth.

They are outerwear vests that come in different lengths, textures, and styles, but all provide warmth without being bulky. Some are even designed as thin-fitting vests that magically provide lots of heat because of their down-feather insulation. The best part is they allow you to show off more layers in your outfit.

Scroll down to see the variety of gilets inspiring me and take notice of how they work with everything from suits to sweats. I feel warmer just looking at them.

Now let us know: if you live in a cold climate like me, is the gilet your fashion secret too? We want to see exactly how you style it! Share your look with us on Instagram by tagging @crossroadstrading, and you may find yourself featured on our feed.

There’s no doubt that 70’s inspired fashion is back, and today we’re sharing 9 pieces from our store racks that capture the look. Each one highlights a major 70’s trend. How many of these do you have in your closet?

1. Mini

Mini dresses and skirts are a classic pick from this decade, especially with ankle boots added. Layer with tights, a long-sleeved shirt and beanie to make it winter-proof.

2. Earth Tones

Colors alone can capture this trend. Look for brown, rust, orange and moss green.

3. Celestial

Prints that feature the stars, moon and sun hint at the decade. We like how this outfit is layered with a zodiac pendant.

4. Bright Floral

We mean really bright, with really big florals. Could these boots be any more perfect?

5. Skater

You don’t even need a skateboard in hand to pull this look off. Just think about That 70’s Show and ask yourself: “What would Kelso wear?”

6. Corduroy

It was everywhere, and it’s back. Here’s a modern Madewell take on it that we want in our closet.

7. Bold Print

Wear a bold print with a neutral, or go all in and add a second bold print. This outfit goes one step further with a gold-buckle weave belt.

8. Throwback

When shopping, look for throwback brands, bands and fonts.

9. Faux Fur

A big faux fur coat or jacket will blend the 70’s trend with your winter need to stay warm. We’re partial to faux rabbit-fur for a 70’s nod.

Are you currently inspired by 70’s fashion? If so, stop in and shop our store racks to find even more.

We’ve been secondhand shopping for as long as we can remember and can easily name what we consider the best thrift store finds. Since we’re in the fashion business, they’re all clothing related of course. The following are the 5 items we jump for joy for when we see them, whether it’s across our store selling counter when we’re buying or on the sales floor when we’re shopping.

Outwear can be an expensive investment, whether a coat, jacket or blazer. With the same budget for a basic mall brand piece, you can upgrade to a designer or higher-quality one when you buy secondhand.

Speaking of higher-quality pieces, we always keep an eye out for premium textiles like cashmere that can cost a small fortune when new. Trust us: a collection of cashmere pieces is definitely within reach with a thrift store budget.

We know you have a unique style all your own and can spot a one-of-a-kind vintage piece from a mile away. We’re the same! We look for pieces that have aged just right, whether in a classic cut, retro silhouette or quirky fit.

Oh denim, you are our daily go-to. Nothing beats finding a denim jacket or pair of jeans in that label you’ve been hesitant to splurge on. You just found it secondhand, so now’s the time to snag that deal!

Sure, we have more handbags than there are days in the week, but when you come across one in a great shape, in quality leather or in the current trend, you can’t help but pick it up. At thrift and resale store prices, you know you won’t regret it.

What have been your best thrift store finds? Let us know by tagging us on Instagram: @crossroadstrading.

Are there really are 8 different puffer coats that work for all styles? Trust us, there are at least 8. As we enter the coldest months of the year, we’ve picked a few to inspire you to find the one that best matches your need for warmth and your personal style.

Ankle-Length

This is the equivalent of wearing your bed comforter outside, and we’re behind it 100%.

Futuristic

The shape of a puffer coat is already eye-catching, so take it one step further and find a futuristic style.

Classic

All boxes get checked here: a detachable hood, shearling lining and big pockets to hold your gloves and beanie.

Cropped

This puffer jacket hits just above the waist, but loses none of its warmth. Extra credit points awarded for the sunny orange color.

Metallic

Because you need some sparkle and shine in winter!

Oversized

We’re drawn to the big sleeves and loose shape. The blanket scarf keeps it from looking sloppy.

Winter White

This choice is for the very brave. Choose a puffer in an unexpected light color like cream.

Vest

We’re sold on the versatility of this vest. It can be worn over a sweater, blazer or fitted jacket.

How did we do covering 8 puffer coats for all styles? Let us know what we missed by tagging us on Instagram with your pick: @crossroadstrading.

With almost 30 years of experience in resale fashion, we’re happy to share our insider tips for selling your clothes in person. We understand that a first-time seller may be nervous about what to expect, but you’ll learn here that it’s quite easy.

Walk the Store

The first step is to get to know the store, and the best way to do that is to “shop” it! Walk the sales floor and ask yourself questions like:

-Which brands and trends do the buyers seem to favor?

-Which department racks are packed? (The store may not buy more maxi dresses if their current rack of maxi dresses is overflowing).

-Which department racks look empty? (The store is likely looking to buy more of these items. This is true of sizes within departments too. For example, a rack with only a few pairs of jeans in a size large means the store may need more of that size).

Ask the Staff

Whether it’s before you sell or during your selling experience, ask staff what they’re currently looking for. They usually have that answer at the top of their head. In the case of Crossroads, you can always review our online selling guide too. It’s based on trends reported directly from our stores.

Don’t Overlook Vintage Pieces

Vintage and retro pieces are very popular right now. Don’t be afraid to bring in an older band t-shirt or a neon jacket from the 80’s. You may be surprised that some of these items are gems to thrift shoppers.

Consider Consignment for Designer Pieces

You’ll likely want a higher price for your designer items, so ask the store if they offer consignment. All Crossroads locations do, except for our outlet store in Stockton. In the case of consignment, you’re paid when the item sells (versus on-the-spot), but the payouts are higher and based on the listed price. You can find the Crossroads consignment payout chart here.

They’re simple, but these are our insider tips for selling your clothes in person to a resale store. Of course, we hope you choose to sell to one of our store locations. If you happen to live further away from one of those, check out our Sell By Mail option.

Happy selling!