March 20, 2025 What is Utility Fashion?
Utility fashion is where practicality meets style, creating a look that’s both functional and trendy. Inspired by workwear and military aesthetics, it focuses on durable fabrics, structured silhouettes, and—almost always—plenty of pockets.
At its core, utility fashion is about versatility. Cargo pants, jumpsuits, and utility jackets aren’t just stylish, they’re designed to be worn and lived in. Neutral tones like khaki, olive, and black dominate the aesthetic, making these pieces easy to mix and match for a polished yet laid-back vibe.
What makes this trend so appealing is its adaptability. You can embrace the look with head-to-toe monochrome and chunky boots, or subtly incorporate elements like a structured vest or a belt bag. Whether you’re running errands or heading out for the night, utility fashion ensures you’re ready for anything.
Want to bring this trend into your closet? We recommend starting with a pair of cargo pants or an oversized utility jacket. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Keep scrolling for looks that capture the trend perfectly.
You can see all the trends we’re looking for right now in our current selling guide. Or follow along with us on Instagram.
March 18, 2025 Women’s History Month Employee Spotlight: Mary Lou
For Women’s History Month, we’re sharing stories from some of the women leaders at Crossroads who have played key roles in the company’s 33-year history.
Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Mary Lou Bagatan, our District Buyer Trainer for the Sacramento/Central Valley who is celebrating 16 years with the company next month!
Meet Mary Lou
Please tell us a little about your career journey at Crossroads.
I tell everyone that my career in fashion really started when my mom took me to my first Crossroads. I was in middle school, and it really ignited my love for Crossroads and shopping secondhand.
In 2009, I was hired on as a part-time Floor Supervisor at our outlet store in Stockton. I grew into an Assistant Manager position and transferred to our Sacramento store in 2012, where I continued to develop my management skills and became the Store Manager. I stayed in that role until January of 2023, when I took on my current role of District Buyer Trainer.
Which part of your Crossroads career makes you most proud?
The work in my current role as a District Buyer Trainer is what I’m most proud of. I love that I get to train and develop future buyers for Crossroads. It’s what I’ve found to be the most rewarding, and it’s something that I’m passionate about.
What’s your favorite part of the job?
The people I work with, and the relationships and connections I’ve made over the years with our Crossroads community.
What do you love to do on your day off?
I love spending quality time with my family – reading, thrifting/antiquing, and coffee dates are some of my favorite pastimes.
What advice would you give to people who want to start a career in fashion?
Working in fashion is like finding your own personal style; you might have to try on several different looks until you find the fit that feels right for you. And like the fashion cycle, sometimes that style changes over time as you grow. It’s never too late to try something new!
March 13, 2025 Spring Fashion: A Bubble Hem Dress
A bubble hem means spring fun, whether it’s on a mini dress, top, or skirt. It brings a fresh, voluminous touch that feels both nostalgic (fond memories of my own 8th grade version abound) and completely modern. In fact, it is perfectly in step with the playful proportions we’ve seen on recent runways.
For days when we’re leaning into statement style, this fashion piece shines all on its own. But when we want a more balanced look, we love pairing it with structured layers like an oversized blazer or a cropped denim jacket. We add sleek flats or strappy sandals to achieve an effortlessly chic spring outfit.
We rounded up some of our favorite bubble hem dress moments from Instagram. Take a peek at what we found!
Have you checked out our current selling guide yet? It features all the trends, styles, and labels that we’re loving right now. Take a look to see if you have any preloved pieces that match up. Then, stop into your nearest Crossroads store location to sell them for cash or store credit. You’ll refresh your closet just in time for the first day of spring!
March 11, 2025 Women’s History Month Employee Spotlight: Joanna
In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re excited to introduce you to some of the women leaders at Crossroads who have played an important part in our company history.
Today, we’d like to introduce you to Joanna Borrego, the District Manager for our South Bay Region. She’s been a part of the Crossroads team for almost 30 years. Amazing!
Meet Joanna
Hi Joanna! Please tell us a little about your career journey at Crossroads.
My journey began while I was attending community college and pursuing a degree in fashion buying. My initial dream job was to be a shoe and handbag buyer for Nordstrom, or another large retailer. I always enjoyed shopping secondhand, but knew nothing about Crossroads until I saw an ad in the Metro newspaper about a new resale shop opening in San Jose. I had been trekking up to San Francisco and Berkeley to sell at Wasteland, Mars Mercantile, and Buffalo Exchange, so I was excited by the ad and decided to apply.
At the time, I was working at my family’s coffee shop, so I planned to work at Crossroads only part-time to quench my fashion obsession. I was hired as a part-time Buyer, and within a year was promoted to a Floor Supervisor, followed by Assistant Manager a few years later. Eventually, I became the Store Manager of the San Jose Store on West San Carlos, and when we opened the Santa Cruz store, I was given the opportunity to be the Hub Manager for that location. Finally, with the opening of the second San Jose store in Blossom Hill, I was officially promoted to District Manager. I now also oversee our sister store, Fillmore and 5th, in Palo Alto.
Which part of your Crossroads career makes you most proud?
I’m most proud that I proved to myself that I have the ability to take on leadership roles that sometimes challenge my natural personality. I am pretty introverted, but at work I strive to be an approachable and humble mentor.
What’s your favorite part of the job?
My favorite part of the job has always been buying! I love how fashion is ever-changing, and because of that I am always learning, even after 29 years. I also love watching staff grow and seeing their career journey with Crossroads flourish.
What do you love to do on your day off?
On my days off, I love to be in the garden drinking iced coffee with my doggie by my side. Maybe I take a trip to an antique store. I also love spending time with my boys, even though they are almost grown adults now.
What advice would you give to people who want to start a career in fashion?
Be open! No matter what path you want to take into fashion, retail is so important! The stepping stone in even an entry-level clothing retail job can lead to big things and a major fashion career! How many times have we heard the story of an iconic fashion designer who began their career as a sales associate at a boutique or major retailer?
March 6, 2025 Fabulous Upscale Resale Finds
Do you love to shop upscale resale stores? These boutique-style stores (think Crossroads) specialize in high-quality, pre-owned clothing, shoes, and accessories.
Unlike traditional thrift stores, they carefully curate their inventory, ensuring every item meets high standards like style, condition, and authenticity. They also focus on popular mall brands, and sometimes even designer labels, to offer shoppers access to their favorite fashion brands at a fraction of the original retail price.
Shopping at an upscale resale fashion store has so many benefits. First and foremost, it allows fashion lovers to own quality pieces without breaking the bank.
Additionally, it’s a sustainable and eco-friendly choice, reducing waste and extending the life cycle of high-quality garments.
Beyond affordability and sustainability, upscale resale shops provide a unique and ever-changing selection of stylish, one-of-a-kind pieces. Fashion enthusiasts may even discover rare or vintage designer items, making their wardrobe truly unique.
Keep scrolling to see a few of the great finds we recently found in our stores. You can find even more on our Instagram feed.
Whether looking for a timeless handbag, a chic designer dress, or stylish accessories, an upscale resale fashion store is a treasure trove for fashion-conscious shoppers.