In this solo episode Claire gets honest about something a lot of people in fashion are thinking; secondhand designer isn’t always the better choice anymore.

From overpriced resale finds to pieces that fall apart after a few wears, Claire breaks down how secondhand has shifted from a “fashion hack” into a gamble. When you’re spending real money, is it still worth the risk? Or does it make more sense to save up and buy something new that actually works for your life?

She shares her own experience of ending up with a closet full of designer pieces she doesn’t even wear—and the turning point that led her back to buying basics that actually function.

She also dives into what it really takes to break into fashion today, sharing practical, advice inspired by helping her sister job hunt.

At its core, this episode is about intention; how we shop, how we participate in fashion, and how to build a wardrobe (and life) that actually makes sense.

The real question:

Are you buying something because it works for your life… or just because of the label?

Topics Covered

• The rise (and fall?) of secondhand designer
• Why resale shopping feels like a gamble now
• Price inflation on platforms like eBay & curated vintage
• Quality vs label: what are we actually paying for?
• Buying new vs secondhand: what’s more intentional?
• Building a functional wardrobe vs aesthetic closet
• NYC fashion events + entering the fashion scene
• Losing a makeup bag → Sephora reset (life moment)
• The pressure to “look the part” in fashion
• How to break into fashion (real strategies that work)
• Networking, self-advocacy, and standing out
• Finding balance between ambition and actually enjoying your life

Host Claire Vastola

Instagram: [@girlintofashion](https://www.instagram.com/girlintofashion)

Instagram: [@workinginfashion](https://www.instagram.com/workinginfashion)

Substack: [Working in Fashion](https://workinginfashion.substack.com)