Blog: Crossroads Style

We’ve been building Halloween looks from secondhand finds for decades. Not only does it spark creativity and reduce waste, but you end up with pieces you can wear long past October 31st.

So let’s talk about the joy of a Halloween costume DIY made from thrift finds that double as everyday style. Here are a few of our favorite tips.

Hunt for Costume Gems in Unexpected Places

Start your costume adventure by wandering through racks that might not scream “costume.” A dramatic velvet blazer, a pair of overalls, a lacy slip dress, or even a pattern-heavy button-up can become costume stars with the right twist. The thrill is in spotting that one item that seems ordinary but benefits from your creative vision.

Build Around a Single Piece

Pick one standout item as your costume anchor, then build everything else around it. Maybe that tuxedo blazer becomes the base for a vampire or ringmaster costume. Or a striped shirt plus suspenders morph into a mime or circus performer. This approach keeps things simple and ensures your base layer is stylish enough to re-wear.

Use Removable Add-Ons & Layered Accessories

DIY elements like felt ears, fabric patches, or sewn-on appliqués can be temporary and removable. A detachable cape or layers of belts and chains can bring drama without permanently altering your garment. That way, when Halloween is over, your pieces go right back into rotation.

Play with Color, Texture & Stitching

With secondhand clothing, the fabric and texture tell stories. A silky dress can become a ghostly apparition, or a tweed skirt can become witchy chic. Add contrast trim, faux fur collars, or painted accents to amp up the Halloween vibe. This is where your imagination truly shines.

Night of the Costume…and Beyond

On Halloween night, enjoy the spotlight. But once it’s over? You’re not stuck with a one-time outfit. Strip off the costume accessories and wear the main pieces again: the blazer, the boots, the shirt. You’ve earned twice the use, and saved your budget for next year.

So go ahead and dive into thrift racks, envision costume potential, and get creative. A Halloween costume DIY doesn’t have to vanish after one night. In fact, when you build it carefully and thoughtfully, your spooky style lives on.

Get even more inspiration with these ideas from our stores!

Fairy Tale Inspired

Pop Culture Figures

Mix & Match

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As the air gets crisp and the leaves start to turn, nothing says fall style quite like a varsity jacket. Originally designed for athletes to show team pride, this classic piece has earned its spot as a fashion staple that can be styled in fresh, modern ways. Whether you’re layering up for a coffee run or heading out for a night in the city, here’s how to make a varsity jacket your go-to outerwear this season.

1. Balance sporty with sleek

Varsity jackets naturally bring a sporty energy, so pair them with sleeker pieces for balance. Think slim denim, tailored trousers, or even a slip skirt. The contrast creates a fashion-forward look that feels current while still highlighting the jacket’s nostalgic roots.

2. Play with layers

Fall is all about layering, and a varsity jacket makes the perfect top layer. Try wearing it over a hoodie for streetwear vibes or over a turtleneck for a polished twist. The key is to mix textures; we like to pair wool or leather sleeves with soft knits for extra dimension.

3. Go bold with color

Classic varsity jackets often feature bold school-inspired color blocking, which makes them a natural statement piece. Lean into that by choosing one with standout patches or vibrant hues, and keep the rest of your outfit neutral.

Or flip the script and opt for a monochrome version that lets your accessories pop instead.

4. Make it personal

What’s fun about styling a varsity jacket is that it can reflect your personality. Add your favorite vintage pins, layer it with chunky jewelry, or pair it with sneakers that match the trim. Little touches like these make the look feel uniquely yours.

This fall, varsity jackets are more than just a nod to high school nostalgia, they’re a way to express your style while staying warm and on-trend. With the right pairings, you’ll find yourself reaching for this piece again and again.

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When it comes to jewelry, few trends have the same easy appeal as layered necklaces. You can count on them to dress up a simple tee or add the finishing touch to a night-out look, and this styling trick gives you instant polish with very little effort.  We like to mix and match what we already own to create a look that feels completely personal. Here’s how to do it in a few easy steps.

1. Start with a Focal Piece

We typically pick a pendant or charm necklace. This piece should be the longest or most eye-catching of your layers, setting the tone for the rest of your look. From there, add shorter chains in varying textures, like delicate chokers, subtle link chains, or beaded strands. The goal is to create visual interest without overwhelming your outfit.

2. Play with Proportions

Contrast is your best friend here, so don’t be afraid to pair a chunky chain with a slim, barely-there necklace. This balance keeps your layers intentional rather than cluttered. If you’re unsure where to stop, three pieces are usually the sweet spot: one short, one mid-length, and one longer chain.

3. Don’t Forget About the Neckline Pairing

A crewneck tee highlights shorter layers, while a deep V-neck provides the perfect canvas for longer chains. For button-downs, tuck a couple of chains under the collar  for a polished yet relaxed vibe.

4.  Let Your Personality Shine Through

Mixing metals is no longer off-limits; we find that gold, silver, and rose gold all work beautifully together. Add in charms that mean something to you, or a vintage piece you scored secondhand, and you’ve got a look that feels uniquely yours.

With just a little experimentation, layered necklaces can become your go-to accessory formula. They’re simple enough for everyday wear yet sophisticated enough for special occasions. It’s a jewelry trend that truly does it all.

By the way: did you know you can find jewelry pieces at Crossroads stores?

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There’s something about cooler weather that makes us crave texture, layers, and timeless patterns, and tartan plaid checks all the boxes. From classic vibes to modern street-style twists, this print feels equally cozy and chic when the temperature drops. If you’re ready to work it into your fall and winter wardrobe, here are a few easy ways to make tartan feel fresh, versatile, and uniquely you.

1. Start with a Statement Piece

A tartan blazer or longline coat brings instant interest to any outfit. Throw one over jeans and a tee for coffee runs, or pair it with tailored trousers for a polished work look. The key is letting the plaid take center stage, so keep your accessories and other patterns minimal.

2. Balance Bold with Neutral

Tartan plaid tends to be bold, which makes it the perfect partner for your wardrobe staples. A yellow check print looks amazing with simple black basics, while a navy tartan scarf makes a neutral coat look instantly more intentional. Stick to one standout plaid piece per outfit for maximum impact.

3. Play with Texture and Layers

Fall and winter style is all about layering. Try mixing tartan with cozy knits, leather, or denim for that effortless, styled-but-not-trying-too-hard vibe. A chunky sweater layered under a plaid shacket? Perfect. A tartan mini skirt with opaque tights and boots? Yes, please.

4. Accessorize Lightly

Not ready for head-to-toe checks? Accessories are your best friend. Plaid scarves, berets, and even handbags let you dip into the trend without committing to a full look. Plus, they’re easy to swap in and out depending on your mood.

This season, tartan is less about following rules and more about finding combinations that feel fun, cozy, and authentic to your style. Whether you go all-in with a bold outerwear moment or keep it subtle with a scarf, this heritage pattern will have you looking effortlessly cool all season long.

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There are certain items you walk into a resale store hoping to discover, and gently used dresses surface at the top of that list. Casual day pieces are as popular as chic evening options, and they are the kind of treasure that makes secondhand shopping so rewarding. At fashion resale stores like Crossroads, preloved dresses strike the perfect balance of style, value, and versatility.

One of the biggest reasons dresses are such a great secondhand find is their one-and-done factor. Slip one on, add a few accessories, and you’re ready to go. Dresses offer an instant outfit that makes mornings so much easier. Plus, when you shop resale dresses, you’ll find a mix of current trends and timeless staples at a fraction of retail prices.

Another reason to keep an eye out for used dresses is the variety. You’ll often find easy, wearable styles perfect for everyday life, like breezy midi dresses to pair with flats, cozy sweater dresses that transition seamlessly into cooler months, or shirt dresses that work equally well on the weekend or in the office. Maxi dresses are another favorite, offering comfort without sacrificing style, and wrap dresses remain universally flattering and endlessly versatile.

Because resale racks are constantly refreshed, you’ll also get to experiment with different cuts, fabrics, and patterns without overspending. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try a bold print or a silhouette outside your comfort zone. Resale gives you the freedom to do just that.

Finally, let’s not forget sustainability. Choosing secondhand over new means you’re giving a garment a second life and making a fashion choice that’s better for the planet.

So next time you browse the racks at Crossroads, head straight to the dress section. With a little luck, you’ll uncover that perfect piece you didn’t even know you were looking for.

Keep scrolling for some recent finds in our stores.

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