Hey, friends! I’m Franchela—a Mother, Wife, Model, Worship dancer, and much more. I am a total island girl, born and raised in the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas. So, I am all about color, spice, and everything nice! When I moved to Arizona, it was a big change, but the change was amazing (no regrets). During my transition from the Caribbean to the desert, I turned to fashion to express how I was feeling and how I wanted to feel, by adding color to my outfits. But, in order to do so, I had to find pieces that were unique and, most important, on a budget. I was introduced to Goodwill!!!
I describe my style as fun, out of the box, and colorful. I enjoy wearing colors, patterns, and prints that make a statement when I walk into a room. To me, fashion means being able to leave my comfort zone and play with styles and size. I believe fashion mean confidence, strength, and acceptance. It’s not what you wear; it’s how you wear it. So work it, ladies!!!
I decided to start thrifting to save money (I think we all do). Thrifting is so fun, when I go out to thrift I never come home empty handed. I always find statement pieces that no one else will have—I get to look amazing without breaking the bank and I get to be my own personal stylist.
For my outfits, I looked for items that I can pair easily and fun. For example, in my first outfit I am wearing a green vibrant dress, which I paired with black legging and boots. I love to keep thing simple but also fun by adding a pop of color.
My second look is a fun vibrant style. I wore a polka dot skirt, which can easily be paired with any color top; I decided to wear this cute skirt with a high neck royal blue jacket and black boots (you can never go wrong with black shoes). I paired this outfit with a light blue pattern handbag to complete this look.
In my third outfit I am wearing black jeans (that I absolutely love), and I believe everyone should have black jeans. I pair my black jeans with a black simple top for a clean, casual look, along with a denim jacket to add some sass to this outfit.
For my fourth outfit, I chose a black dress (ladies, make sure you always have a black dress in your wardrobe). I paired this dress with a statement piece brown jacket, a brown belt (to show off my waist), and pointed toe shoes with a cool snake print.
My last outfit is a more dressy style; I chose a red, vibrant high waist trousers, floral multicolor strappy shoes, a black belt, and a simple black top. To finish this look, I added a chic handbag and “do not forget the hair”!
Finally, here are some tips I’ve learned when shopping at Goodwill. Always have an open mind, do not be scared to look for prints and patterns, and be open to wearing a different size (you will be surprised). Have fun! Shopping at Goodwill is an adventure—it’s amazing and you will always find something you love. Take your time, have confidence, and be the best fashionista you can be.
Goodwill never lets me down. When I walk into a Goodwill, I know I will find an amazing piece of art.
