Blog: Crossroads Style

We think that a thrifted holiday party outfit may be the best kind of holiday party outfit. Why? First, you save money when shopping secondhand, especially for a look you may only put to use for a night or two.

Second, we find that thrifted looks are more unique than ones straight off the department store rack. They’re usually a blend of rare and special finds, ensuring you won’t see anyone else in the same attire.

We looked through the regional Instagram feeds of our stores and found you some holiday party outfit ideas built around some of our favorite themes. See something you like? Visit your local Crossroads and start pulling your party looks together. There’s still time!

Classic Cocktail Dress

House of CB dress, NWT, $68.

Slip Dress with Boots

Kessley jacket, $47.50; No Label dress, $18.50; Harley Davidson boots, $85.

Leather Basics

Babaton pleather button-up, NWT, $37.50; Wilfred pleather shorts, $22.50; Rag & Bone boots, $42.50; Zac Posen crossbody bag, $120. 

Head to Toe Metallic

Wild Fable puffer jacket, $22.50; Awake skirt, $75; Alexander McQueen boots, $250.

Twin Set

2011 Versace x H&M collaboration.

Monochrome

Andre Lanzino coat, $37.50; Smoke & Ash shirt, $15; Britches pants, $28.

And just like that, puddle pants were in every fashion magazine and on our favorite websites. They seemed to emerge from thin air and had us immediately intrigued. What was this trend all about?

A quick search for some inspiration photos followed, and within minutes we were sold. Ah yes, puddle pants will definitely be finding a way into our wardrobe this season. The question now is whether we’ll pick them in denim or not.

And finding them can be as simple as picking a pair of wide-length or straight-leg pants in a longer length than usual. With so many stores offering a range of lengths these days, lots of options are out there.

Keep scrolling for a glimpse of puddle pants at their best. Then, stop into any of our stores in search of your own pair. Please promise to share how you style your puddle pants by tagging us @crossroadstrading.

As part of our Staff Style Spotlight series, meet Ellis, a Buyer at Crossroads. We asked Chicago employees to bring their style and star in our latest photoshoot wearing their Crossroads finds. Read about Ellis’ personal style, favorite Crossroads finds and favorite thing about working at Crossroads.

Tell us about your favorite Crossroads find.

I found a pink fuzzy heart Hello Kitty print tote! It’s my favorite thing.

What are you dying to see come into your Crossroads store?

Vivienne Westwood hearts jacket.

What are your Winter closet essentials?

Leg warmers and pink ear muffs!

How would you describe your personal style?

Hearts! Pinks, reds, blacks, platform boots & heels! I guess I try to mix in love-core elements & try to be as fem as possible.

What is your favorite thing about working at Crossroads?

I love fashion, so working at a place where I can learn and curate it is always super rewarding and fun for me.

Top tips for selling at Crossroads?

Make sure to be aware of season & for first time sellers, bring literally whatever you want in! You might be surprised at what we take and you can learn more about our buying process.

Thanks for the Staff Style Spotlight, Ellis! As a Buyer, Ellis plays a crucial role by working with customers who come in to sell and selecting merchandise for the store. Do you love fashion? You should join our team! Check out our Careers page to learn more about working at Crossroads.

As part of our Staff Style Spotlight series, meet Marion, an Assistant Manager at Crossroads. We asked Chicago employees to bring their style and star in our latest photoshoot wearing their Crossroads finds. Read about Marion’s personal style, favorite Crossroads finds and favorite thing about working at Crossroads.

Tell us about your favorite Crossroads find.

Louis Vuitton pochette bag (graffiti) with an extension strap included.

What are you dying to see come into your Crossroads store?

A 70’s Penny Lane coat or Acne Studios moto shearling jacket.

What are your Winter closet essentials?

A full length camel coat and platform boots galore!

How would you describe your personal style?

Casual witch of every era!

What is your favorite thing about working at Crossroads?

I love being exposed to so much new fashion. It’s inspiring and also a great way of being introduced to new trends. Plus, I love my team!

Top tips for selling at Crossroads?

Be prepared. Look at our Selling Guide to stay up to date with what we’re looking for. Download the Waitlist App; the wait to sell can be long!

Thanks for the Staff Style Spotlight, Marion! As an Assistant Manager, Marion assists customers on the sales floor, trains and supervises staff members, and processes the amazing secondhand fashion that comes into their Crossroads. Do you love fashion? You should join our team! Check out our Careers page to learn more about working at Crossroads.

Putting together holiday party looks is a favorite pastime of ours. We take every party invite quite seriously!

And now that we’ve reached that part of the year where our holiday calendar is filling up with events with family, friends, and co-workers, we’re scrolling for holiday party looks on the regular.

Here are a few holiday looks that have our attention.

Cropped Suit

A take on the classic suit, this cropped version is extra chic. This would be perfect for a work event.

Classic Sparkle

You know we love holiday glitz, like sequins and feathers. If you’re the same, don’t hold back!

Hollywood Glamour

Something as simple as a faux fur stole and gold choker can elevate a simple dress for the holidays.

Slip Dress

It’s like getting to wear your pajamas to a party! Our go-to pairings for a slip dress are a leather jacket and boots.

Silk Suit

Find a suit in a flowy fabric like silk, and look for one in rich winter tones like burgundy, emerald, and sapphire.

Leather Pants

Leather pants. Tank. Blazer. You’re set.

Head to Toe Black

If you find yourself staring blankly into your closet, just choose all black pieces and make it easy on yourself!

Mis-Matched Suit

Make a suit less casual and event-ready by mixing your suit jackets and pants. Then, keep the shirt simple, like a turtleneck or tee.

Stop into your local Crossroads store to find your holiday looks!