I recently thrifted this vintage1970s maxi dress for $6 in Hartville. I’ve always been drawn to vintage dresses, especially 1970s and 1960s era styles. However, I’ve found that blending these vintage finds with my modern wardrobe can be a bit tricky. Here’s how I adapt my thrifted vintage dresses to fit current fashion trends each season, from choosing the right color palette to accessorizing.
Matching My Color Palette
When I’m incorporating vintage dresses into my wardrobe, I focus on how they align with my personal color palette rather than just following seasonal trends. Understanding the colors that flatter me most helps me select and style vintage pieces in a way that feels authentic and cohesive.
Layering for a Modern Look
Layering has become my go-to strategy for modernizing a vintage dress. I love adding contemporary pieces like blazers, denim jackets, or oversized sweaters to create a look that feels current.
Tailoring and Alterations
Sometimes a vintage dress needs a little tailoring to feel more contemporary. Simple alterations, like shortening the hemline or taking in the waist, can make a vintage piece feel brand new. Or you can go bold and chop off the bottom of a vintage dress to make a shirt or crop top. However, I’m always mindful of preserving the integrity of the dress, especially if it’s a rare or valuable piece. If you’re hesitant to make any permanent changes, consider temporary fixes like fashion tape.
Key Pairing Items
These are some of the go-to modern items I pair with vintage dresses:
- White sneakers
- Sunglasses
- Tights
- Turtlenecks
- Blazers
- Denim Jackets
- Long Coats
