Online Thrifting for the Met Gala—Finding the Perfect Formal Fit

Met Gala season is right around the corner at Boston College, and we want to help you look your best on March 27th without breaking the bank. While online stores offer trendy selections, finding a look that perfectly fits both the occasion and your personal style can be a challenge. That’s why secondhand platforms like Poshmark, Depop, eBay, and Vinted are my best friends to find one-of-a-kind outfits during formal season (but let’s be honest, I’m on there all year round). With hundreds of thousands of listings, thrifting online can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!

This year’s Met Gala theme is Masquerade—think Gossip Girl balls, the Great Gatsby dinner parties, and all things class. This doesn’t have to mean just satin gowns and black-tie suits– here are tips and keywords to help you navigate the search based on your own personal style inspo! I’ve done some shopping for you, and all the photos (except the last section) lead to active listings!

Key takeaways:

1. Start by gathering ideas on Pinterest—this will help you come up with descriptions to look up on secondhand platforms. 

2. Use very literal keywords that you think a middle-to-old aged person would describe what you’re looking for (2000s instead of y2k, use words like halter, cowl neck, and collared neck to describe the exact fit, etc.)

3. Google search is your best friend: if you see something that you like that’s not your size, look it up on google image search. 

4. Make offers on listings—part of online thrifting is negotiating ;)

WOMENSWEAR

Satin Dresses

Keywords: satin gown, satin formal dress, satin prom dress, long slip dress (add in “2000s” or “vintage” to any of these, too)

Brands: Zum Zum, Jessica McClintock, Cachet, BCBGMaxazria, Betsy & Adam

Vintage Cachet Dress, Vintage Rampage Gown, Women's Gold and Tan Dress, Vintage Whimsigoth Maxi Slip Dress

Beaded Dresses

Keywords: beaded formal dress, beaded prom dress, embroidered prom dress, embroidered formal dress, sequined prom dress, embellished formal dress (add in “2000s” or “vintage” to any of these, too)

Brands: Caché, Rampage, Sue Wong, Alex Evenings, Jump Apparel

Vintage Women's Silver and Grey Dress, Alex Evenings Women's Maxi Dress

Mesh/Ruffle Dresses

Keywords: mesh formal dress, mesh beaded dress, layered prom dress, ruffle tiered prom dress, ruffle formal dress, draped prom dress, draped formal dress, whimsygoth formal dress (add in “2000s” or “vintage” to any of these, too)

Brands: City Triangles, Taboo, Roberta, Masquerade

Women's Black Tie Evening Dress, Women's Brown and Green Dress, Vintage Y2K Formal Dress

MENSWEAR

Unique Tops

Keywords: men’s blouse, men’s sheer top, men’s formal top, men’s asymmetrical top, men’s satin button up, men’s graphic button up

Brands: Twisted Tailor, Pierre Cardin, Top Shop, Banana Republic

Incerun Men's Button Down, Alfani Men's Cream and White Shirt, Twisted Tailor Shirt

Leather Jackets

Keywords: men’s leather jacket, oversized leather jacket, men’s moto jacket (add in “vintage” to any of these, too)

Brands: Arizona, Wilson’s Leather, Route 66, London Fog, Ryer Road

Men's Black and Brown Jacket, Arizona Men's Brown and Black Jacket, Men's Brown Jacket

Ties

Keywords: men’s silk scarf, men’s silk handkerchief, bolo tie, checkered tie

Pinterest Checkered Tie, Pinterest Prada Bolo Tie, Pinterest Scarf Tie

I’m super excited to see all of your amazing outfits at the Met Gala! Make sure to purchase your ticket at Robsham Box Office before they sell out, and check out @bc.fashionclub on Instagram for more info about the event and dress code!