See through Summer.

It’s getting close to summertime and SHEER is all the rage. As with any trend there are ways to do it well and ways to totally abuse it. My biggest tip: be creative with where you sheer. Anyone can throw a sheer top on over a bra and call it trendy. It takes some thought, skill and prudence to not go too far overboard with any trend but be able to integrate it into your current wardrobe and tailor it to your personal style. The great news for the thrift-savvy, and especially the DIY-ers out there is that sheer fabric isn’t a new thing, it’s just being done in a new way.

I found this layered sheer polka dotted top at Thrift Town and love the print, and think it adds a dash of feminine whimsy to my wardrobe. This outfit is completely thrifted, and under $20 for the entire look.

The creamy tan-pink hue was just so pretty and different.
With the layers, I can do the sheer thing without being too revealing.
And for $3.00 - there was no passing it up.

Speaking of layers: you can layer a sheer blouse over a differently colored (and full coverage)
tank for a bit of skin and visual interest. Mix and match colors for a fun pop.

For the DIY savvy - you can add lace or sheer panels to just about anything!
This cardigan with the sheer back is so cute, and shows off the colors or cut of whatever’s underneath.
For a few bucks at Thrift Town, get a top, dress or lightweight cardigan and experiment with adding a bit of lace/sheer to it.
You’ll be on trend but have a completely unique piece!

For skirts: thrift the trend! Go to the maxi skirts, and find one with a sheer top layer. Cut the under-layers to a shorter cut, and maybe even cut the front of the sheer layer for a dramatic high-low effect. For a few dollars (instead of $30-$50) you have got a cute summer staple.

So head over to Thrift Town to gear up for the warmer weather — next week: a look at all the summer trends, and how to rock it secondhand.

Happy Thrifting, Friends!

Kari Shipman is thrifty, eco-conscious, and knows the importance of supporting local charities. She has been our featured blogger since we started the blog in 2010, and has a serious passion for fashion. In addition to owning her own Fashion Consulting Business, Juniper James, Kari is the Retail Manager and Designer Consultant for Flywheel, a non-profit, all-local designer retail shop/art studio.

Kari lives out her passions in Northern California with her wonderful husband Charles, and their black lab, Gracie.