I’ve always been drawn to vintage dresses, especially 1970s and 1990s era styles. However, I’ve found that blending these vintage finds with my trendy wardrobe can be a bit tricky. These are three ways I adapt my thrifted vintage dresses and skirts to fit my current wardrobe.
Matching My Color Palette
When I’m thrifting vintage dresses, I focus on how they align with the colors in my existing wardrobe rather than just following seasonal trends. That way they can easily be styled with things I already own in a way that feels authentic and cohesive.
Layering
Layering has become my go-to strategy for modernizing a vintage dress or skirt. I love adding new pieces like blazers, denim jackets, vests, or oversized sweaters to create a look that feels current.
Tailoring and Alterations
Sometimes a vintage dress needs a little tailoring to feel more modern. 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
Remember, mixing eras is all about balance and what feels right for you!
