Since moving to Los Angeles four years ago, I have faithfully made semiannual trips back to Michigan to see my family and friends. Of course maintaining a tight bond there is important, but I have an additional motive: there’s a relationship that keeps me coming back for more. This whole thing started in the 7th grade and now I just can’t seem to break it off. I don’t want to break it off. You don’t just throw away the thing that saw you through your awkward junior high days, the thing that kept you grounded in high school and college, and the thing that continues to inspire you in your professional life.

Hello. My name is Hillary, I’m a fashion designer and I’m in love with a secondhand store named Valueland.

I’ve never met another thrift store quite like it. During my last visit in mid-December, I tried to understand what sets Valueland apart from other thrift stores. It’s not solely the selection, though I’ve certainly found some gems—everything from perfectly worn vintage tees and supple leather clutches to pieces from Banana Republic’s retro Banana Republic Safari label and my new favorite, Liz Sport.

One of the differences between Valueland and other thrifts is that they organize by style, then by color: an element that eliminates distraction, letting the eye glide over yellow hoodies from Hollister and focus in on the deliciously threadbare heather grey crewneck sweatshirts. Like any old friendship, my commitment to Valueland comes down to its ability to deliver something universally sustainable: comfort. When I shop there, I don’t worry about time (I’m on vacation, after all). And I don’t worry about getting inspiration for work (although that usually comes after). I just walk in and see where my eye is drawn.

Most recently, I found myself focused on printed blazers, denim, khaki pants, nudes and brights…I do have expectations when I go—chunky sweaters, leather, sequins (or even better, leather and sequins), silk scarves, blouses—but I never hold myself to them. This time I discovered a strong-shouldered ethnic-print cotton dress, high-waisted and pleated dark khaki trousers, an arm load of silk t-shirts in beautiful nudes and bright pinks, and even more that I still need to unpack. I found myself attracted to patterns that were mainly solid with just a flower or a shape here and there—a fixation that will undoubtedly creep up as I work on prints for next spring.

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