Eloquence Under A Threadbare Cloak

photos by adelle

when i go thrift-shopping i am often quite obsessive about garment quality. of course i realize that i am buying a used item – about 99% of the time anyway – so i do acknowledge the fact that there will be undeniable signs of wear and tear. however i still make sure that the piece i am eyeing is not only in wearable condition, but also of sound quality — one that would last me for quite some time. just because i am buying something cheap does not mean i have to sacrifice that important aspect, after all.

a few weeks ago, when i unearthed this blouse in a thrift shop sale bin, i nearly wept at its beauty. the front and sleeves are embroidered with the prettiest gold thread, and the billowing fabric was too alluring to ignore. but then i immediately noticed all its flaws, too: unraveling threads, some missing beadwork, small signs of piling. an internal debate went on in my head, and after several minutes of talking to myself (subtly, i promise), i decided to get it. not because it was dirt cheap, but because i truly loved the top and found the thought of parting with it too unbearable for my fickle little heart.

while i do adore this little piece, i must admit the thought of ironing it scares me terribly… so every time i wear it on the blog i’m afraid you will all see its subtle beauty — wrinkles and all.

top – thrifted
trousers – liberte
heels – seychelles
necklace – vintage via appraisery
bag – thrifted