The Shopping Bag: Let's talk vintage rock with Vanessa Natalia

Header image for Interrobang article CREDIT: HAI HA NGUYEN

Today, street fashion is heavily influenced by vintage and thriftshopping savvy fashionistas who take advantage of the unique pieces they are able to integrate into their wardrobe at a low price. Vanessa Natalia, the founder of Rage Market, an independently owned online vintage/thrift blog and store, is an example of someone who has mastered the art of mixing vintage and thrift pieces in with the season's current trends. Through her unique style, she is able to showcase how great pieces aren't only found in mass retail stores and that pairing unusual prints and themes together can create a refreshing look.

Her style is heavily influenced by style icon Rita Ora, '80s hip-hop, rock and vintage clothing. In this week's outfit, Natalia dresses up a plain black high-neck dress with a colourful '80s vintage blouse, studded pleather vest, combat boots and an armful of accessories. What's great about this outfit is that the pieces range from $1 to $50 — reasonable for a student's budget!

1. High-Neck Dress: Typically this high-neck dress is a classic and would look beautiful with a simple pair of earrings and pumps. However, Natalia decided to use it as a base for a funkier day outfit that makes a statement. The simplicity of the dress allows the printed blouse to stand out and layer a vest on top. (H&M, $12)

2. Vintage Printed Blouse: This uniquely printed blouse adds an unexpected twist to the outfit. The '80s randomized print of yellow, green, blue and red will be sure to capture some attention! It's a great print to have for a summer, spring or fall wardrobe. (ragemarket.bigcartel. com, $25)

3. Studded Pleather Vest: This is a perfect way to add a touch of rock into your wardrobe! Natalia chose to layer this vest on top of the printed blouse to break up the print and through this, she is able to highlight the accessories that she is wearing. (H&M, $50)

4. Accessories: Natalia incorporated her hip-hop, vintage and rock inspirations through her chunky gold accessories and combat boots to complete the outfit. She rocks a gold symbol necklace along with mesh gold and studded bracelets and a floral printed watch. To make the outfit daywear-friendly and comfortable, she wore black combat boots. (Necklace: TopShop, $12; Bracelets: H&M and Aldo Accessories $5 to $15; Watch: Salvation Army, $1; Boots: Value Village, $30)

Vintage and thrift shopping are excellent ways to find interesting pieces to incorporate into your wardrobe. You'll wear it confidently knowing you're the only person who has that piece and managed to snag it for cheap! Even if you are wearing trendy pieces from mass retailers, that vintage item is what will differentiate your style from other people.

Try wearing unexpected prints, accessories and mixing themes like Natalia, but find your balance and what you feel comfortable wearing. For more interesting and exciting vintage finds $5 to $30, visit Natalia's website at ragemarket.bigcartel.com.

Hai Ha Nguyen is a Fashion Design student who loves to discover the new trends in street fashion. Follow her on Instagram at instagram.com/haihanguyen7 for the trendiest pieces this season! If you have a suggestion or feedback for her column, send her an email at hhnguyen.77@gmail.com.