Thrift store score: Goldenrod Plaid Coat from The Limited

With Labor Day in the rearview mirror, it's time to get serious about fall fashion. Of course, here in Southern California, we're entering into the hottest time of the year, which makes it insanely frustrating -- especially when all the fashion bloggers in the Midwest and East Coast are starting to don their tights, boots and other fall wardrobe staples. Nonetheless, I have packed away my white jeans until next Memorial Day, and I will valiantly brave sweltering temps so that I may curate a tiny clatch of purchases to round out my "Fox Hunt 2011" fashion aesthetic this fall.

I was out at the thrifts a few weeks back with my friend Vanessa when I spotted this beautiful wool coat from The Limited. I was immediately drawn to its goldenrod hue and plaid pattern, swooning at the oversized shape and the belt that had a buckle that looked and felt like Bakelite. Of course it's only "inspired" Bakelite, but the look reminded me of the 1960s, and the colors are perfect for fall. In addition to the golden yellow, there is a pale purple and a bluish-gray. I am absolutely smitten with it.

Finding fall and winter items can sometimes be a challenge here in L.A. because the weather is usually too warm for big, chunky cableknits and thick wool coats. But every once in awhile, you hit paydirt -- and what makes it even better is that the condition of these items is usually pristine since it's so seldom cold enough to wear them. Such was the case with this beauty. It's in perfect shape; there is no wear at all, and it looks like it's new off the rack. Now I just have to wait a couple of months before I can wear it. (Hand to my heart: the hottest day of the year we first moved out here was Thanksgiving!)

Total spent: $9.99.