From the unbelievably prolific, beautiful and inspired Stacey Kay of Goodwill Huntingg, an exclusive post for Thrift Store Confidential readers looking to incorporate runway trends on a thrift store budget. Hats off (and loafers on) to Stacey for taking such time and care to craft such a fabulous piece!

Thrift your way to savings on spring’s hottest fashion trends

Spring is on its way, and with it comes a whole assortment of new fashion trends to update your wardrobe. But instead of heading out to your local shopping center to stock your closet for the turning season, consider thrifting instead.

It’s a fact that many mid-range fashion labels base their products off styles that were popular in decades past. For this reason, it’s easy to benefit from their nostalgia. Save those precious dollars and cut out the middle man, wear the vintage versions instead!

Here’s a list of five of the biggest trends for spring 2011, and my thrift store alternatives. You’ll be amazed at the price difference between my picks and popular fashion retailer’s Urban Outfitters version of the trends. You might even like some of the thrifted pieces better! The best part? You can download the printable guide and take it right with you to your local thrift store.

1. The Loafer

Whether you choose a fabulous neutral, a bright color, or a patterned version, the loafer is set to surpass the ballet flat this spring as the most fashionable new shoe. Loafers are such a classic; it’s a cinch to find these at your local thrift store! Check out my pick from the Salvation Army thrift store, a gorgeous canvas loafer with a floral pattern. Loafers can be worn with either pants or dresses, so it’s a really versatile trend that will be easy to mix and match.

2. Floral Blouses

Florals are always a trend for spring, but the runways showcased lots of large and antique style floral prints this year, instead of the tiny ditsy print that has been popular in recent seasons. Synonymous with granny style for years, this type of pattern is sure to be found in local thrift stores. I found this amazing vintage tie-neck blouse at Salvation Army for only $0.99. Beat that Urban Outfitters!

3. Bohemian Dresses

Returning again this spring, bohemian frocks will be all the rage. This has got to be one of the easiest to thrift, just head to the dress rack and scan for those crazy ethnic patterns! The fit isn’t as important when thrifting for a dress, the look now is a little loose, and you can always cinch a belt around your waist to flatter your figure. Maxi, midi, and mini lengths are all in this spring, but at $1.99 even a $10.00 hem alteration at your local tailor is worth it. Why spend close to $60.00 when you can get it for under $5.00?

4. Lace

Fashion critics raved about all the lace shown during the spring 2011 shows. Lace is popular now in everything from tops to skirts, and can add a sexy, vintage touch to any spring outfit. I was thrilled to find this gorgeous plum colored lace dress at the Salvation Army thrift store, and for $2.99 it definitely beat out this Urban Outfitters edition at $69.00. Think Scarlett Johansson and Mila Kunis a la Academy Awards red carpet. Lace was a big trend in the early 90’s, so there should be a decent collection of discarded garments at your local thrift store.

5. The Patterned Pant

Drop-crotch, harem, trouser cut, and wide leg patterned pants are all in vogue for the warmer months. This is one mega-trend that you don’t want to miss out on! I’ve seen rows and rows of patterned pants on my thrifting trips; the trick is getting the fit right. Don’t be overwhelmed, just head over to any patterns or colors that you find particular intriguing, and be sure to try them on. Many will have an elastic waist, but don’t despair. You can always cover the waist band with a wide belt for a more modern look. I’ve already collected four pairs of patterned pants for spring, and will no doubt be back for more.

If you enjoyed my list, don’t forget to check out my blog, Goodwill Huntingg for daily outfit ideas and styling tips using clothing thrifted from local charity shops.

Spring Trends: Printable Thrifting Guide

Stacey Kay is a freelance fashion blogger residing in Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a BA in Fashion Merchandising from Kent State University, and has studied fashion throughout Europe and Asia, specializing in Fashion Retail through an exchange program with Hong Kong Polytechnic University. She has written for fashion websites such as FashionablyCleveland.com and Collegefashionista.com, produces her own personal blog, GoodwillHuntingg.com, and is the Cleveland Women’s Fashion Examiner for Examiner.com. She has been named “Goodwill Style Icon” of Greater NY and NJ, and been featured on Modcloth.com for her thrifting savvy. Her mission is to help real women find ways of reinforcing their self confidence and self esteem by finding their personal style.

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