On average, I only purchase vintage and used clothing that 5 dollars or less an item. For very special pieces, I make exceptions like the 40 dollar vintage leather and shearling coat I showed off last week. These prices are possible in the thrifting Mecca of Boise, Idaho, where most of our second-hand stores are yet to be stripped of their vintage treasures.

Having experienced unemployment, I would never, EVER forgive myself if I spent an unholy sum of money on one of these baseball caps, fresh off the runways. From Dior Homme A/W 2012:

Photos from 10magazine.

From Miu Miu Fall 2011 Ready-to-wear:

Photos from Style.com.

The clean simple baseball cap with minimalistic neutrals really elevates this singularly-American accessory. Fortunately, I don’t have to spend an unethical amount of money on something that Jason can borrow from our neighbor. Same concept. Totes free. He’s the handsomest.

Another favorite that just trod down the Paris menswear Givenchy A/W 2012 runway (that I’m pretty sure Jason would never wear for me) is….drumroll please…. FANCY NOSE RINGS!

Do it! Defile your nose with stars! What’s stopping you? Oh yeah, these ones are horribly expensive. Any ideas for ways to make a cheaper fancy nose ring?

Pictures from Diane Pernet and 10magazine.

More fancy nose rings (attached to earrings) in Chanel’s Pre-fall 2012 line:

I must find someway to make this happen… preferably with a clip-on so I don’t have to pierce my nose. Photos from Style.com.

These ivory/bone lace-up boots are reminiscent of Anna’s thrift store pair in Wednesday’s Blog. Swimwear designer Lisa Marie Fernandez paired hers with a vibrant print. I’m crazy about the subtle asymmetry in the hemline of this dress – from Trendy Crew.

I’m also crazy about this much bolder asymmetrical hemline. The simple styling really pulls it off. I’m on the hunt for a thrift store skirt to alter like this one – from Mr. Newton.

Besides, I already own a less Achilles-tendon-shortening version of those platforms.

…and those were this week’s Inspiration Bites.