Fall in Michigan is a fickle beast, but we're manifesting that crisp air like our wardrobes depend on it. Because, well, they do. It's time to embrace the season of cute sweaters and creative layering.
This year, skip the mass-produced nonsense and dive into vintage and thrift. It's not just a fashion choice; it's a statement. You'll look like you stepped out of a Nora Ephron film while giving fast fashion the cold shoulder. Plus, a chunky cable knit sweater is the fashion equivalent of comfort food—always in style and impossibly satisfying. Support local, channel your inner style hero and casually mention your outfit is old enough to remember dial-up internet.
So, readers, we challenge you to shop locally and sustainably through vintage and secondhand goods. We've highlighted some great places and events to do just that.
Second Vibess
Located in Downtown Grand Rapids, Second Vibess is a Gen Z dream where vintage and new creations collide. They thrift perfectly good materials and create unique designs, like this smiley face that has become their signature. Their jackets and vests are perfect for layering this fall and fit in perfectly with the oversized trend. It's upcycling with style, proving that sustainable fashion doesn't mean sacrificing your cool factor.
Must-Have: Bomber Jacket paired with a simple t-shirt and jeans. Layering is key.
Second Vibess was founded by owners Camille and Kaitlyn, whose love of second-hand fashion inspired them to start up their own shop. Two years after opening their storefront, they not only provide our community with the best-upcycled fashion, but have also turned their business into a community of its own by hosting events and creating a loyal base.
Better Aged
You can visit this charming storefront right off Wealthy Street in Grand Rapids. Their vintage tee collection is to die for—might we suggest pairing it with a bomber jacket? From band merch that'll make you seem way cooler than you actually are, to sports tees that don't scream "I peaked in high school," they've got it all. It's like they raided the best parts of the last four decades and left the regrettable fashion choices behind—looking at you, stonewash.
Must-Have: Vintage crewnecks and Levis—the power couple of fashion that Better Aged stocks a lot of. For those aiming to channel their inner badass, pair straight-leg denim with a leather blazer (yeah, they've got those) and some heeled boots; it's the outfit equivalent of a mic drop.
It's easy to get very creative in this store. And that oversized jacket trend we mentioned—they have it. It's great for making your outfit look casual and effortless but still curated and put-together—and warm. Did we mention warm?
Saving Grace Thrift
Founded by Taylor Cross, Saving Grace gives preloved clothing a second home. Her mission is to help others feel comfortable in their own skin and save money. You can find her clothes at both Changing Thymes locations in Grandville. She also sells at markets and vendor shows, like the upcoming Farmgirl Flea Market on September 27-28.
Saving Grace is your fall fashion headquarters, stocked with this season's must-haves. Flowy skirts are swooshing back into style, perfect for twirling through leaf piles (#autumn). Cowboy boots are boot scootin' boogieing onto the scene—because Western is in, y'all. Bows are making a comeback, while jumpsuits remain the easiest one-and-done outfit choice. It's an ensemble that works, from the pumpkin patch to the cider mill, where plaid is encouraged ... if not legally mandated. Just add a pumpkin spice latte, and you've become the ultimate basic.
Must-Have: Flowy skirt, chunky sweater (try a French tuck), tights and those boots you've been eyeing since July.
Thrifting clothing, especially from experts who curate the best pieces into their own storefronts, is a great way to make your closet more unique and help our environment. It's a win-win.
Check out events like Farmgirl Flea Market and the Fall Rummage Sale at Fulton Street Market, or simply venture to new storefronts in your favorite part of town. You can shop all the current trends, and no one else will be wearing them. Shopping secondhand guarantees you'll have a unique look and style all your own. Consider it an extra bonus that we're able to support local small businesses in the process.
Written by Kim Bode, Principal, 8THIRTYFOUR Integrated Communications.
Photo courtesy of Second Vibes and Saving Grace Thrift.
