A few nights ago I had the opportunity to return to the LA Opera for another fantastic performance. In September, when I was in Paris I stayed in the Ópera district again, but unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to go. The last time I went to the opera was for my birthday to see the well known, Aida. That experience was incredible as expected with the music, the costumes and overall atmosphere.
This time around I went to LA Opera to see, Omar. This spectacular performance is based on the true story written by Omar Ibn Said. Omar was a Senegalese Muslim man who was captured and enslaved. He was able to write his autobiography in Arabic that detailed his entire journey of his life. He unfortunately died an enslaved man, but the beauty of his unwavering faith and strength continues on as his legacy in the opera. Omar was an incredible production. What I most enjoyed was seeing all the melanin on stage and behind the scenes. The conductor was even a Black man. I also thoroughly enjoyed the colorful costume ensembles of the entire cast. I highly recommend that you go see this performance. It is an incredible story to see sung and portrayed with passion and heart.
For this evening, I decided to wear one of my favorite thrift finds from years past. I actually first wore this sultry sweater dress the first time I went to the LA Opera in 2013. I decided to rebirth this frock this year since I was finally able to fit it again. I love thrifting and I decided to share the details of this dress and some helpful hints below.
Outfit details
Gold leaf sweater dress- thrifted (Find similar here)
Black metal clutch bag- thrifted. (Find similar here)
Gold leaf earrings- thrifted. (Find similar here)
Platform maryjanes- Vince Camuto (Find similar here)
Pink Coat- Nicole Miller (Find similar here)
Thrifting Helpful Hints
- Try to avoid thrift shopping at chain thrift stores. The prices are usually higher and the merchandise has been picked through by the employees.
- Shop for classic pieces for your wardrobe not things that are “in fashion.” This will keep your finds more sustainable and you’ll get more use out of your pieces.
- Find clothes that are made with quality fabrics. That means natural or heavier fabrics.
- Look for clothes with older labels, but have not been worn down.
- Remember fashion repeats every 30 years. Just because your thrift find doesn’t seem fashionable now, doesn’t mean it won’t be later.
- Buy clothes that fit your personal style. If something unique catches your eye then buy.
- When shopping wear undergarments you don’t mind being exposed (ie. sports bra/ biker shorts), so you may try on clothes before you buy.
Confections, Crafts, Couture 