Leilani Wertens Picks Her Fashionable Finds at Randolph Street Market

If there is a flea market in the Windy City, you’re bound to find Leilani Wertens pawing through the vintage fashions. Known as Thriftaholic, Leilani has an eye for secondhand clothes and accessories. If you don’t catch Leilani photographing the Randolph Street Market goods inside the Historic Plumbers Hall during Memorial Weekend, she’ll be hitting other local garage, yard and rummage sales all summer long while also contributing to Britain’s new vintage-centric publication V & Oak. Here’s hoping she takes a breather and has a glass of sangria (or two) at her favorite Cuban hotspot Cafe Laguardia in Bucktown. In the meantime, check out Leilani’s fashionable picks as we count down the days to the Randolph’s Season Opener.

Light Blue Samsonite Vintage Train Case

Train cases are useful as storage in small city apartments, they also can be used as a chic carry on that evokes the golden era of travel and the romanticism of crisscrossing the country via rail.

Find it on Krrb.com.

1950s Vintage Pink Dress

Five years ago I started wearing vintage and secondhand clothing exclusively so I’m always on the lookout for cotton day dresses; this 1950s frock caught my eye due to the sweet detail of the white bow on the collar. It would be perfect to wear for a picnic at Lake Michigan or for attending a backyard BBQ.

Find it on Krrb.com.

Sterling Snake Ring

As temperatures rise, I wear simpler clothing but pile on bold accessories. The serpent ring plays to my interest in Ancient Egyptian culture and is also on-trend with what’s going on in the current fashion world— a true classic that’s stayed in style for over 1,000 years.

Find it on Krrb.com.

Kilim Handbags

As a commuter, I’m always on the lookout for well crafted handbags that are also roomy enough to fit my camera, a novel and lunch. Each of these handbags are one of a kind and are made from antique Turkish Kilim rugs sourced abroad. They’re truly a wearable piece of history.

Find it on Krrb.com.

Pocket Knife Necklace

The grittiness of the pocket knife contrasts with the dainty feminine gold chains of this necklace created from vintage components. Since the pocket knife is fully functioning, it’s a practical and fashionable piece. As a city dweller for the past 8 years, I also enjoy the concept of an “urban amulet”.

Find it on Krrb.com.

Thanks Leilani!

See You There!

Randolph Street Market on Saturday, May 26 (10am-6pm) and Sunday, May 27 (10am-5pm) at 1340 W. Washington Boulevard, inside the Historic Plumbers Hall in Chicago. Admission is $8 general advance online / $10 at the door.

For more information, visit the Randolph Street Market website.