Let’s face it – second-hand shopping can do wonders for your wardrobe and your wallet. Not only can you score unique, vintage, and designer pieces at a fraction of the original price, but you’re also doing your part in promoting sustainable fashion by giving these clothes a new lease on life.

However, knowing how to style thrifted clothes can be somewhat tricky, especially if you’re new to the world of thrifting. Fear not, we have compiled a list of 12 stylist-approved tips that will help you rock your thrifted finds like a pro.

1. Start with Staples

When thrifting, it’s always smart to start with the basics. Look for timeless pieces like denim jackets, crisp white shirts, black trousers, or little black dresses. These items are incredibly versatile and can be easily incorporated into your existing wardrobe.

For example, you could pair a thrifted white shirt with your favorite skinny jeans and ankle boots for a chic, casual look. Or, dress up a black trouser with a lacy top and strappy heels for a sophisticated evening outfit. Remember, the key to styling thrifted clothes is to mix and match them with your current pieces to create a variety of unique looks.

2. Layer Up

One of the easiest ways to style thrifted clothes is to play with layering. This technique not only helps you create interesting and complex outfits but also allows you to utilize your thrifted finds in multiple ways.

Consider layering a thrifted oversized sweater over a crisp white shirt and pair it with skinny jeans for a cozy and stylish outfit. Alternatively, you can layer a thrifted slip dress over a turtleneck for a trendy winter look. The possibilities are endless when it comes to layering, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

3. Make Alterations

Just because your thrifted find doesn’t fit perfectly, doesn’t mean it can’t be a valuable addition to your wardrobe. With a few minor alterations, you can transform an ill-fitting garment into a custom-tailored piece.

If you’re handy with a sewing machine, you can make the alterations yourself. But if sewing isn’t your forte, consider taking your thrifted clothes to a professional tailor. For example, a pair of oversized jeans can be turned into a trendy pair of boyfriend jeans, or a long, dowdy skirt can be shortened into a cute mini.

4. Accessorize

Accessories can make or break an outfit. They are the finishing touch that can elevate your thrifted outfit from basic to sophisticated.

Don’t overlook the accessories section when you’re thrifting. You can find unique pieces like vintage brooches, statement belts, or chic scarves that can add a pop of color or a touch of glam to your outfit. For instance, you can pair a thrifted oversized blazer with a statement belt for a trendy, cinched waist look.

5. Mix and Match Prints

One of the joys of thrifting is finding unique prints that you wouldn’t typically find in a regular store. Mixing and matching these prints can create a visually interesting and fashion-forward look.

However, mixing prints can be tricky. A good rule of thumb is to stick with prints that share a common color. This creates a sense of cohesion in your outfit. For example, you could wear a thrifted floral blouse with a striped skirt, as long as they both share a common color, like blue.

6. Go Monochrome

Another stylish way to wear thrifted clothes is to create a monochrome outfit. This involves wearing different shades of the same color from head to toe.

Not only does a monochrome outfit look sleek and sophisticated, but it’s also a great way to make your thrifted pieces look more expensive than they actually are. For instance, you could pair a thrifted lavender blouse with a darker purple skirt and lilac shoes for a chic, monochrome look.

7. Embrace the Oversized Trend

Oversized clothing is not only comfortable but also very much in trend. When thrifting, don’t shy away from pieces that are a few sizes too big, as they can be styled in various chic ways.

For example, an oversized thrifted blazer can be worn as a dress with a belt cinched at the waist. Or, an oversized shirt can be worn off the shoulder for a relaxed, stylish look. Remember, fashion is all about being creative and expressing yourself, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles.

8. Pair Vintage with Modern

One of the best things about thrifting is the ability to find vintage pieces. Pairing these pieces with modern clothes can create a unique, fashion-forward look.

For instance, you can pair a vintage floral dress with a modern leather jacket for a mix of feminine and edgy vibes. Or, pair a vintage high-waisted skirt with a modern crop top for a trendy outfit. The juxtaposition of vintage and modern pieces can create a truly unique and personal style.

9. DIY Customization

Another great way to style thrifted clothes is to customize them. This could involve dyeing, painting, adding patches, or even cutting up and reassembling the garment in a new way.

For example, you could dip-dye a thrifted white shirt for a trendy, ombre effect. Or, you could cut up a large, thrifted t-shirt and turn it into a cute crop top. DIY customization is a fun way to add a personal touch to your thrifted clothes and make them truly unique.

10. Play with Proportions

Playing with proportions is a fashion stylist’s secret weapon. It’s about balancing different elements of your outfit to create a visually pleasing look.

For instance, if you’ve thrifted an oversized sweater, you could balance it out with skinny jeans or a fitted skirt. Or, if you’ve found a voluminous maxi skirt, you could pair it with a fitted top. Playing with proportions can make your outfit look more polished and put-together.

11. Dress Up Casual Pieces

Don’t be afraid to dress up casual, thrifted pieces. This can be as simple as pairing a thrifted graphic t-shirt with a sequin skirt and heels for a night out.

Alternatively, you could dress up a pair of thrifted jeans with a silk blouse and statement jewelry. Dressing up casual pieces can create a chic, high-low effect, and it’s a great way to get more wear out of your thrifted clothes.

12. Don’t Forget About Shoes

Last but not least, don’t forget about shoes. The right pair of shoes can completely transform an outfit.

When thrifting, keep an eye out for quality shoes that can be paired with multiple outfits. For example, a pair of classic black pumps or a pair of white sneakers can be incredibly versatile. You could pair your thrifted black pumps with a thrifted dress for a chic, office-ready look, or pair your white sneakers with thrifted jeans for a casual, weekend outfit.

Remember, styling thrifted clothes is all about creativity and personal expression. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your wardrobe. With these tips, you’ll be styling your thrifted finds like a pro in no time.