Hello all,
I recently posted a list of alternative brands from the past few decades to aid in searching for second-hand clothing online. It is linked here.
In this follow-up post, I would like to provide an additional resource for finding dark alternative clothing that does not necessarily have to be name brand. Below is a list of filters and keywords I use when searching both second-hand items and affordable clothing shops.
Sorting/Filtering:
- Size – The first search filter I apply when searching for clothing online is size. This may seem obvious. However, I use a range to find additional options. I will usually search from one size smaller than my usual size up to two sizes larger. Certain items that are loose and flowing may work in a size smaller while some styles may work in a larger size if I add a belt to it.
- Color – The second filter I use is color. I normally filter for “black” but may also look for deep jewel tones like “red” or “purple.”
- Price – Lastly, I will either filter for a price range or sort the price from low to high.
Keyword Searching:
Materials & Prints:
- Velvet
- Velveteen
- Patent
- PVC
- Faux leather
- Lace
- Satin
- Suede
- Damask
- Mesh
- Fishnet
- Scroll
Styles & Embellishments
- Bell sleeve
- Flowy
- Corset
- Lace-up
- Victorian
- Baroque
- Edwardian
- Ornate
- Studded
- Spike
- Chains
If I’m looking for something specific, I may use a combination of these search terms. For example, “black flowy skirt,” “red velvet bell sleeve,” “black lace top,” etc.
Stores I use (A-Z):
These are Stores that I use for the above searching strategy and have had a lot of luck finding products at a fraction of the prices that the big alternative brands charge.
I will also occasionally post cool alternative products I find that cost less than popular brands. You can find those posts linked here.
