How to Create Modern Outfits With Vintage Pieces

Vintage fashion has been making a comeback in recent years, with many people turning to thrift & charity stores for unique pieces. But how can you make those older items look modern? 

Many people are hesitant to incorporate clothes from different eras into their modern wardrobe because they fear they will look outdated or too costume-y.  We’ve put together a blog to help you explore how to incorporate vintage clothes into your wardrobe in a modern way.

Mix and Match: Old and New

One of the easiest ways to incorporate vintage pieces into your wardrobe is to mix and match them with modern items. 

Pairing loose jeans with a time-honoured blouse is an easy way to create a chic and effortless look. Start by selecting your favourite pair of vintage jeans that fit snugly around your waist and hips but drape loosely on your legs. 

Wear them with a retro-inspired blouse that’s made from light and airy fabrics like linen or silk. Nylon will be a great alternative, too. 

Tuck the blouse in at the waist to create a flattering silhouette, and add accessories such as bold earrings and a thin belt to complete the look.

Finish off the outfit with neutral-colored sandals for a relaxed yet stylish vibe.

Shoes are perhaps one of the easier ways to mix older items into your style. Picking up a pair of quality shoes from your favourite time period can help pull an outfit together. 

Another way to mix and match vintage and modern clothes is to pair a vintage dress with a modern jacket or coat. This not only adds a layer of warmth but also updates the look of the dress.

The many styles you can create using vintage clothes are only limited by your imagination.

Accessorise with Vintage Pieces

Accessories are a great way to incorporate vintage pieces into your wardrobe without overwhelming your look. 

For example, a vintage necklace or brooch can add a touch of elegance to a simple modern outfit. A vintage belt can cinch into a modern dress to give it a more retro feel and look. Vintage earrings or a handbag can also add a touch of charm to any outfit. 

And, of course, don’t forget the power of a great scarf or piece of eye-catching jewellery to really pull your look together. 

When it comes to accessorising your outfits, don’t be afraid to experiment. You can mix and match different jewellery, handbags, watches, and more to create unique looks that are all your own.

Think Outside the Box

When it comes to vintage fashion, it’s important to be creative to get the most out of your next second-hand shopping trip. Some colour combinations you can utilise can be pairing white vintage clothing with another item using that is a blue or red hue.  A deep colour contrast can exude a revolutionary look.

For example, a vintage dress can be paired with modern sneakers for a unique and unexpected look. Play with colours by pairing vintage pieces in surprising colour combinations, such as a vintage red dress with modern blue or green shoes.

Repurposing older pieces can further push your outfit into new areas. For example, a vintage scarf can be worn as a headwrap or a shirt can be turned into a skirt. This not only gives new life to these older clothes but also allows you to create a unique look.

Pay Attention to Fit

One of the most important things to keep in mind when incorporating vintage pieces into your wardrobe is fit. 

Vintage clothing is often cut differently than modern clothing, so it’s important to make sure that a piece fits well before you buy it. A dress that is too large or too small can make you look frumpy and dated.

Take your measurements and compare them to the garment’s measurements to ensure a proper fit. Consider the fabric since vintage ones have more rigid or heavy materials. 

Try it on whenever possible before purchasing to ensure a great fit. Put special attention to pockets, zippers, and buttons, and ensure they are functional. If you find a great fit but with broken or fraying details, assess if the condition is repairable or if alteration is an option. Take it to a tailor or a seamstress so you can make the proper repair or changes to it. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that vintage clothing is often made of different fabrics than modern clothing. For example, vintage wool or silk can be scratchy or heavy. It’s important to keep in mind the comfort level of the vintage piece you choose.

Invest in Quality

When it comes to vintage fashion, it’s important to invest in quality. Clothing that was well-made and still in good condition will last longer and look better than cheaper, lower-quality vintage pieces.

Signs of quality mean well-constructed seams, sturdy or repairable buttons and zippers,  and the fabric is intact 

Don’t get too caught up in brand names as there are many clothing manufacturers that are no longer around who made quality products. 

It’s also important to note that some vintage pieces may need to be altered or repaired. This is something to keep in mind when buying vintage clothing, as it may increase the overall cost of the piece.