Archive for January, 2010

Gucci to Givenchy.

I got to tell you I was psyched when I saw this vintage Givenchy for Saks Fifth Avenue shirt hanging on the racks.  Give me anything Givenchy and I’m happy, afterall if it was good enough for Audrey Hepburn it’s good enough for me.  Riccardo Tisci is the creative director at Givenchy.  Born in 1974 and raised in Como and originally from Taranto, in the deep south of Italy, studied design at the Saint Martin School of Arts in London.  Riccardo Tisci presented his first Haute Couture Collection for Givenchy in 2005.  Tisci following the tradions and customs of Milanese ready to wear shows, the presentation created, in addition to its surprising appearance, a different kind of fashion feeling – a feeling of new elegance as well as innovative savoir-faire.  This handsome well tailored vintage shirt made me happy and for $5.00, I can afford to be happy.  Then I found this vintage Gucci over the shoulder handbag and by judging the age on the hardware this baby has seen alot !  I would estimate the bag is from the 1980′s, and there are a few more miles left on this bag ,plus it was only $3.50….  It’s not everyday I find vintage Givenchy and  Gucci but since the universe spooned me some love, I’ll take it.  Don’t forget to visit The Thrifters Boutique located on top right, it’s an excuse to indulge. Toodles for now.  Daniel

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Burberry sweater.

I love finding Burberry,  there is something about the classic English style that this brand just captures brilliantly.  When I snatched this sweater out from the depth of sweater purgatory I bowed my head with thanks.  Thomas Burberry founded the brand is 1856.  Did you know that in 1911, the house outfitted the first explorers to reach the South Pole, and by 1914, adapted its coats for WWI soldiers fighting in the trenches (hence the trench coat).  By 2001, Burberry became cool again, thanks to then – CEO Rose Marie Bravo, who tagged Kate Moss as muse and Christopher Bailey as designer.  This sweater could keep anyone warm during the winters.  Warm and yet stylish isn’t that what makes life so sweet?  Please don’t forget to check out The Thrifters new Boutique on the top right hand side and follow me on Twitter and Facebook. Toodles for now.  Daniel


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Yummy Vanilia slacks.

These slacks, both size 4,  by Vanilia are just YUMMY,  that’s the only word I can use to describe these form fitting slacks.   Made in Italy, but designed in Germany, Vanilia pants and jeans represent the best combination of functionality and fashion.  They are slimming and flattering in all sizes.  Their “bi-stretch” which is actually a four way stretch, as opposed to standard stretch allows for free movement in every direction.  In the early 1980′s Heinz Consul and his wife Yvonne founded the fashion brand focusing on feminine collections.  Awhile back I was thrifting with my friend Sloan and I discovered a pair of

Vanilia slacks and made her try them on.  When Sloan came out of the dressing room you would have thought I had just given her George Clooney’s cell number.  She absolutely loved the way they hugged her body, and between you and me I don’t think she has taken them off since.  These slacks retail anywhere from $160 and up, way up.  If you were to ask Sloan to describe her Vanilia slacks in one word,  she would reply “Yummy. Please don’t forget to check out The Thrifters Boutique link on the top right hand side and follow me on Facebook and Twitter. Toodles for now.  Daniel


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Hermes scarf and this time it’s not a fake !

I was on the phone talking to my good friend Nena as I was thrifting, when  I see the big H hanging on the wall of scarves.  I said “Nena you won’t believe what I have in my hands right now” ( for some that might be a loaded question) I got so excited, I couldn’t see straight (wink wink). I took the scarf off the hanger and started to unfold it, step by step I was praying that there would be no tears, stains or left over grandma’s lipstick smudge.  I’ve must have been a very good boy because it was in excellent condition.  I know you understand, finding an Hermes scarf is like finding the pot filled with gold at the end of the rainbow, it’s like getting that rare chance to actually try on the Ruby Red Slippers at the Smithsonian, I mean finding an Hermes scarf is extremely rare.  I have only found once before, which I happened to have blogged about it, and it turned out to be a big old fake.  Not this one, it’s a real as Bea Arthur’s husky voice, god bless her soul.  The edges are nice and hand rolled, the colors are crisp and not runny, and image of the deers are FAB.  I told Nena how much it was priced,  and I could hear her smile on the other end of the phone. Please check out my new Thrifters Boutique link on the top right hand side.  Toodles for now.  Daniel



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Tod’s and Dansko.

I know it was pure luck when I found these Tod’s and Dansko shoes at the thrift store.  I was lucky once before when I found my first pair of Tod’s and let me tell you they are the most comfortable shoe I own. Ever chic presence in the world of luxury, Tod’s stands not only for core Italian artisanship, but mostly for the capacity to distinguish itself as a classic trend setter.  Tod’s represents an understated effortless attire and lifestyle.  I almost fell out when I saw the label.  They are a rare find indeed and one that I will treasure for sure.  Moments later I ended up spotting these Dansko’s open back clog, that promote all day comfort and back friendly posture.  I am in HEAVEN.  I was Wile E. Coyote to the counter, there was a cloud of dust behind me, I swear on my Karl jacket !  Please don’t forget to check out The Thrifters Boutique located on the top right side of screen. Toodles for now.  Daniel

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Canali blazer for my brother.

My brother gave me $100 to go thrifting, he wanted to see just what I could score.  When I showed up back at his high rise with a bag full of goodies,  reaching inside the hefty bag filled with “my score” , I pulled out this gorgeous navy Canali blazer.  In 1934 brothers Giovanni and Giacomo Canali established an artisan workshop in Triuggio, Brianza, to produce high quality clothing.  Today the business is run by the third generation of the family, but continues to be guilded by a creative flair and a vision of men’s elegance that is quite out of the ordinary.   I said “Darrell this is a Canali jacket, the retail on this would easily be $1,200-1,400.”  He grabs the jacket, looks at the price tag of $9.99, and tried it on.  It fit him to perfection and as he waltzed around the room he had that look on his face that said “do I really have to give it back?”  I said keep the jacket since it looks so great on you and after all you did give me my play money,  enjoy it’s richness !  I’m blessed to have a brother that supports my thrifting addiction.  Please don’t forget to check out my new Thrifters Boutique link on the top right hand side.  Toodles for now.  Daniel

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Loro Piana + Moschino Couture.

When my fingers detected a bit of quality,  as I ran them through the slack section, I knew it was going to be a grand ole day.  When I pulled out from the rack these chocolate suede Loro Piana slacks (size 10), I thought I was going to have a Umie moment (remember when she found the Lacroix skirt?)….  I have only once before found a Loro Piana linen raspberry  shirt and I still haven’t taken it off.  Hands down that brand is all about quality and luxury.  These suede slacks would retail for $1,900 and you know I didn’t pay that, plus this baby had it’s original tags still on them.  I know your mouth is wide open at this point, I can’t blame you but close it and continue reading onward.  As I continued to shop and flip through the women’s jacket section,  I caught the color of this jacket first and then the label.  Moschino , oh my Moschino size 8, the color yellow with the black buttons and trim work is just fantastic and when I turned it over to check out the backside I discovered the smiley face.  Isn’t that jacket just the ticket?  I mean wouldn’t  you love to make an entrance wearing that jacket with those suede slacks?   I couldn’t have styled a client any better, well at least for now ! Please check out my new Thrifters Boutique located at the top right hand side. Toodles for now.  Daniel



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Marcel Wanders’ vase.

I was thrifting with my friends Umie and Sloan , and my hands were extremely full, when I turned the corner and saw this vase.  Having  full hands didn’t stop me from  managing  to pick the vase up and turn it over.  My eyes lite up when I saw “designed by Marcel Wanders” on the bottom.  What was even better, it was on the table that was marked 50% off, which means it was now just $2.50.  Marcel Wanders grew up in the Netherland, and graduated cum laude from the School of the Arts Arnhem  in 1988.  Marcel Wanders’ fame started with his iconic Knotted Chair, which he produced for Droog Design in 1996.  He is now ubiquitous, designing for the biggest European contemporary design manufactures like B&B Italia, Bisazza, Poliform, Moroso, Flos, Cappellini, Droog Design and Moooi of which he is also art director and co-owner.  This little 5 stem vase is from his Delft collection so how sweet is that?  I’m a HUGE fan of his designs, there really isn’t anything I wouldn’t want from this designer.  Paying for it now is another matter, well that is unless you are lucky enough to have been thrifting with Umie, Sloan and myself.  Please check out The Thrifters Boutique link on the top right hand side of your screen if interested in purchasing any item on my blog. Toodles for now.  Daniel

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Armani Exchange and a little vintage St. John.

Armani Exchange is accessible Armani, it is the youthful label created by Italian mega GOD himself Giorgio Armani.  This line caters to a unique style, sophisticated, urban and very sexy shopper.  I plucked this seductive black (size small) sassy dress from the racks and just said “thank you gods” and I swear on my bible ( Wallpaper magazine) as soon as I gave my thanks I grabbed this vintage St. John by Marie Gray knit jacket.  Here are 10 things you may not know about Marie Gray. 1) She was born in Belgrade. 2) Went to school in Austria and Canada. 3) Studied voice in hopes of a career in theater and opera. 4) Loved clothes and became a fashion model. 5) To impress her boyfriend, she knitted a dress.  6) Married her boyfriend (Bob Gray) who became St. John’s CEO until he retired in 2007.  7) Had 3 children and 6 grandchildren.  8.  A picky perfectionist. 9) Passionate about golf .  10) Has 3 dogs that rule their house.  Most people wouldn’t think about combining  A/X with a St. John knit piece but I’m here to tell you I would !  This whole ensemble looks fresh, classic and very desirable. Please be sure to check out my new Thrifters Boutique which has just opened, click the link on the top right hand side of screen. Toodles for now.  Daniel



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Isaac Mizrahi coat.

Can a girl ever have enough coats Umie asked me when she waltzed over to me wearing this absolute gorgeous Isaac Mizrahi black wool coat.  She asked the wrong person because I can’t say no to any luxury label…I know I’m addicted but I digress. This long coat fit Umie as if it were made just for her body form.  Remember awhile back I posted Umie’s green coat, the one our friend Sloan bought Umie for her Chanukah gift, this black one is a nice addition to her wardrobe.  Wouldn’t you say?  So the answer is no,  a girl can never have enough coats in her wardrobe,  especially a Isaac Mizrahi one !  I know this coat isn’t for sale but anything else on my blog is so if you are interested in purchasing please email me your “Secret Bid” and I’ll reply with a YES or No.  Shipping to be determined. Toodles for now.  Daniel



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Oscar de la Renta meet Robert Clergerie.

I’m on the hunt for a vintage Pucci blouse, because that’s what I think this lovely tailored Oscar de la Renta wool 2 piece suit needs.  It needs a splash of color, a little something extra that says to the world, I’m here and I’m stylish!! Now if I were styling a client for the evening,  I would put this Oscar with a vintage Pucci and then jack it up with some Manolo Blahnik black leather 3 1/2” heels.  For day time I would put my client in a vintage Missoni blouse and these gorgeous Robert Clergerie loafers, especially if she was heading to her office. Robert Clergerie started his career in 1970, joining Charles Jourdan.  In 1981, he launched the Robert Clergerie line for women and it immediately gained success in France and abroad.  In the shoe industry, the name is associated with simplicity, research of purity in the design, but also the quality of fitting. This little 2 piece Oscar suit really could have a whole new beginning.  If you are interested in purchasing the suit or shoes please email me your “Secret Bid” and I will reply either YES or NO. Toodles for now.  Daniel


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Elie Tahari chocolate wool slacks.





I always think it’s especially nice when I not only find a pair of gorgeous slacks, but that they had just been dry cleaned too. I purchased these ultra chic Elie Tahari chocolate brown wool slacks for $2.50. Elie Tahari born in Israel is an American luxury fashion designer of men and women’s clothing. He moved to New York in 1971 where he sought work in Mahattan’s garment district sleeping many nights at the YMCA hotel or on the benches of Central Park. Elie learned all about the fashion retail business while working selling clothing from a boutique in Greenwich village and began designing women’s fashion inspired by the NY city nightclub scene. He was one of the first fashion designers to open a boutique on Madison Avenue in 1974. His company now generates $500 million, in 40 countries and in more than 600 US stores with 15 free standing boutiques. Don’t you LOVE hearing stories like that?  If you are interested in purchasing these gorgeous slacks or anything else on my blog please email me your “secret bid” and I’ll respond with a YES or NO reply.

Toodles for now. Daniel

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3 Ralph Lauren Purple Label linen shirts.

Imagine my delight when I just happened to have stumbled upon not one, not two but three Ralph Lauren Purple Label linen shirts.  They all came out of the same thrift store and within minutes of each other.  I have to admit it to you all, and I know I’m going to get some flack here for what I’m about to divulge but here goes….I’m really never been a Ralph Lauren fan.  There I said it !  The clothes have always felt a bit conservative, more traditional than my taste.  I guess that all went out the window when I saw the Purple Label !  The Purple Label is for a glamorous guy, not a trendy guy who changes silhouettes when a magazine tells him to said Ralph Lauren.   “It’s about confidence and individuality.  It’s a chic, custom-tailored guy who has money and style and a sense of individuality.”  The Purple Label is the most luxurious of the collections. I’m all about looking chic on a dime. If you are interested in purchasing any of these gorgeous linen shirts or for that matter anything previously shown on my blog,  please email me with your secret bid.    I will respond with a” yes” or “no” reply.  Shipping to be determined.

Toodles for now.  Daniel


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Loro Piana need I say more?

I have no idea why I was digging through the short sleeve shirts when it’s subzero weather outside but it certainly paid off in a big way.  As I was flipping through the shirts my eyes first took note of the raspberry color and thought that’s a gorgeous color so I pushed back the other shirts in front only to see the Loro Piana label. The Loro Piana family started as merchants of wool fabrics at the beginning of the 19th century.  Today Loro Piana owns 132 stores worldwide that distribute luxury sportwear and leisurewear for men, woman and children. This gorgeous linen shirt is so well constructed it’s no wonder why this company is consider the absolute creme de la creme. I was pleasantly surprised with this find as you can only imagine but thankfully I was shopping for short sleeve shirts in the dead of Winter.  Toodles for now.  Daniel


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Yohji Yamamoto jacket.

When I went out thrifting today, I had no earthly idea that I would run into Yohji Yamamoto.  Let me tell you this, I’m so glad I did.  I was just in the women coat rack section when I noticed the lapel on this jacket.  It was really kind of cool and artsy so I pushed back the coat in front of it and when I did I noticed the label.  Yohji Yamamoto POUR HOMME ( that means Man) so I got the giggles at first, like my first date giggles….Yohji Yamamoto is an internationally known Japanese fashion designer based in Tokyo and Paris. He is known for an avant garde spirit in his clothing, frequently creating designs far removed from current trends.  Love him, Love him, Love him !  So now that I know this jacket was just misplaced in the wrong section I grab it and tried it on immediately.  It fit me like a tight Ferrari leather seat.  Moral of this story is always look everywhere when you’re in a thrift store, I do mean EVERYWHERE .  Toodles for now.  Daniel


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