STYLISH TREASURES

Thrifting — it's one of the most sustainable ways to shop for clothes, and if you're lucky, you can score some really awesome and often one-of-a-kind pieces. I've been following "thrift junky" Brandi of Run Style Run on Instagram for quite a while now, so when she reached out to me to help spread the word about her Instagram shop, Stylish Treasures, I was absolutely thrilled (and honestly geeked out a bit)!

I'll admit, I'm a total newbie to the thrifting scene. Growing up, I wasn't too keen on buying secondhand, partly because the thrift stores where I grew up had pretty limited options and nothing seemed to fit my personal style. But now that I'm trying to be more eco-conscious with my clothing choices, I'm slowly starting to incorporate thrifted pieces into my wardrobe. With that said, I thought Brandi would be an excellent source to learn more about the art of thrifting and how she handpicks quality, unique pieces for her shop, including this beautiful linen tee. Scroll down to read the interview.

TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF AND THE STORY BEHIND STYLISH TREASURES.

Hi!!! My name is Brandi! I am from Idaho and currently live in my hometown Idaho falls where I did most of my growing up! I'm married to my best friend, Alan. We've been married a year and a half. We have a dog named Huckleberry and we absolutely love the outdoors. Idaho is great for that. As for my fashion background, I've been a "thrift junky" for years and absolutely love treasure hunting through secondhand stores. I started my blog to share my style and thrifty finds. That led to selling on eBay and eventually I decided to start selling things on Instagram! My shop is called Stylish Treasures. I came up with the name as I have always considered thrift shopping "treasure hunting." This beautiful outlet has allowed me to work from home and do what I love. So when you're following and purchasing from my shop, you're supporting a very small business run by me, myself, and I. It's my baby and my dream.

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO OPEN YOUR OWN ONLINE VINTAGE SHOP?

I've always loved secondhand shopping and would find so many items that weren't necessarily my size but were in too good of shape to leave behind. Having my Instagram shop has allowed me to do what I love and share with others! I can get my shopping fix then send the items along to someone who will love them. I love the idea of recycling these treasures. I love shopping more than I love having a closet full of clothing so I feel this is the perfect outlet for me.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE OVERALL AESTHETIC OF STYLISH TREASURES?

I've always loved vintage or antique items. I love pieces that have some sort of story, even if I just imagine what it is. I love having a mix of vintage, rustic, minimal essentials, and unique pieces. So you can find anything from a 1940's dress, to a brand new basic t-shirt, to gently used rustic leather boots, to a fun patterned wide leg pant. I like to think I have something for everyone. Most of all though, I want the best of quality for my customers. I want them to feel they've found their most cherished items in my shop.

WHY THRIFT OVER BUYING NEW?

I love the idea of upcycling or recycling. By taking some extra time to look through a thrift store, you're giving those items a chance to be used again and again instead of fast fashion stores that I find are often a waste of your money. I thrift, sometimes wear, then resell items. I also love that you can find vintage pieces that are often one-of-a-kind! Lastly, most thrift stores have a charity they help or are 100% charity-based. You're giving back to your community and the planet.

HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT FINDING THAT "DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH"?

I've thrifted for years, so I like to think I've got my system down. I know brands and fabrics well but if I don't, I use Google often! I've been careful to not buy something just because it may be a brand I like. I want a piece that speaks to me and I never question. The biggest thing for me is using my imagination. When I find a piece I like, how could it work in my wardrobe or someone else's? What would I wear it with? How can I modernize it a little if it's vintage? Thrift shopping is definitely an art and takes a thought process. Who'd a known, am I right? Haha. Most importantly, I try things on! You wouldn't believe how many items people would think I'm crazy to purchase then I try it on and they're like, "Ok, that's amazing!" So fun!

ANY OTHER VINTAGE AND THRIFT SHOPPING TIPS YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

Thrift shopping isn't for everyone and that's okay! Some just outright don't have time for it. Trust me, I know it can be time consuming. What's great about my shop, Stylish Treasures is I do the dirty work for you! I will spend hours in thrift stores so you don't have to and you're still helping keep these items out of landfills. I always say, don't be afraid of secondhand items. I've worn mostly secondhand for years and I'm still alive and kicking. Haha. In my shop though, I often carry new items for those who don't like wearing used items. I like to keep a variety for everyone! Lastly, with thrift shopping, if you see a shirt that reminds you of your grandma, don't be afraid to try it on and fold up the sleeves. I'm being serious. I have several matronly pieces in my closet that are my most favorite.

WHY IS SUSTAINABILITY IMPORTANT TO YOU?

I can't tell you how many times I've purchased a shirt then the second time I've worn it, I'm ready to get rid of it. Over the years, I've learned I just want items I'll love forever! I have items in my closet I've owned for years and I still put on and think to myself, "I STILL love this shirt." I'm so over fast fashion. Don't get me wrong, I love a good trend, but trends come and go. So I like to find items that will be timeless and last! I've made it a goal to be this way with my own wardrobe and my Instagram shop — finding pieces I can send off that will be timeless and long lasting for my customers.