Blog: Crossroads Style

I’ve learned so much from our store buyers about their quick steps to authenticate a Coach bag. Since they buy from the public every day, they’ve learned how to authenticate and price a wide array of popular designer bags over the counter.

They look to detailed internet guides like this one for general staff training and on-the-spot referencing. Our buyers are also avid shoppers, so whenever possible they take the opportunity to touch and study designer bags in department stores and boutiques. They also regularly pass around ones brought into our stores from senior buyers so they can examine signature details. In the case of a Coach bag, they focus on the following three things.

1. Quality is King

Leather bags feel buttery to the touch, have heavy hardware and hold a shape when empty. The first step you’ll often see a buyer take is to just sit a bag on the counter to see how it rests. They then run their hand along the outside of the bag, lift the straps for weight, and check the zippers and hardware for quality and ease of use.

2. Labels are Perfect

A dead giveaway to any fake bag is an error in the designer’s label. In the case of Coach, the label may vary from a current bag to a vintage one, so our buyers learn to identify and confirm what an authentic label will look like.

3. Monograms are Correct

Many Coach bags carry its signature monogram, and any variation on it makes a bag suspect. The easiest way to confirm the monogram is to search the internet for a similar bag, including as much detail as possible and referring only to photos from credible department stores and boutiques, or the label’s own website. Some monograms are more limited in distribution, so don’t be scared off by a new monogram you come across. Just search it online in hopes you’ve discovered something rare!

Here are some photos to help. Scroll down to see just some of the Coach bags that our buyers recently authenticated and brought into our stores.

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.