A Seasoned Thrifter Explains Her Blokecore Style

Erica Caruso doesn’t like sports. For the longest time, she didn’t even know what jersey she was wearing (Ohio State University, in case you’re wondering). Still, that’s never stopped the agent for B&M Models from wearing one. “They’re just so comfortable,” she says.

Here, this Hamilton-born, Toronto-based thrifter breaks down her blokecore outfit.

Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses

Blokecore, at its best, is a blend of both sporty and Y2K aesthetics. Take these second-hand Dolce & Gabbana sunnies as an example of how to transform an athletic outfit into an It-girl serve.

“I wear these sunglasses every day,” says Caruso. “They cover 90 per cent of my face, and that’s my favourite thing about them.”

Only Cool Sh*t jersey

This top by Only Cool Sh*t is perhaps more blokette (a style that combines stereotypically masculine and feminine elements) than blokecore. While the repurposed Ohio State University jersey came adorned with lace hem, Caruso added the bows herself for “more of a girlie effect.”

Still, when she’s shopping for sports merch, she prioritizes colour and comfort over the team and trim.

Bottega Veneta bag

Is it a real Bottega Veneta bag or is it fake? Caruso honestly isn’t sure, but she also doesn’t really care.

“I got it from a consignment store for like $100 and I was like, ‘Wait, that doesn’t make sense,’” she laughs. “But it’s my go-to bag because I love how oversized it is.”

Adidas track pants

“I love a baggy fit,” says Caruso of these Adidas track pants. “My entire closet is men’s size XXL.” She found this red pair at a Salvation Army in Hamilton and loved how perfectly they matched her red jersey. “When I find two random items that go so well together, it makes me so happy — it’s like a high!”

Steve Madden shoes

Caruso had to train herself to be able to walk in these Steve Madden stilettos. “They’re so high!” she exclaims. Still, she admits they’re her favourite pair she’s ever thrifted as she loves their early-Y2K vibe and how popular they’ve since become on TikTok. “I wear them when I want to have a hot-sporty-girl moment.”

This article first appeared in FASHION’s October 2024 issue. Find out more here.