How Thrift Finds Expanded My Style

Under $10 and a Completely New Wardrobe Game

As some of you know, I recently did a bad style experiment where I intentionally dressed in outfits I did not like and documented how I felt. Initially, I came up with a number of bad style ideas that seemed interesting, but after trying several, I realised that the feelings are quite similar. If the “bad” outfit is toned down, nobody cares what you are wearing. Standout “bad” outfits highly depend on the place and how well they fit within it - they can evoke a lot of comments and draw attention. As a result, I decided I have enough “evidence” to conclude my experiment and continue to dress how I like.

While doing that experiment though, I had to find pieces that I really do not wear, so I went to a number of thrift stores to source them for under 10 USD. This exercise really opened my eyes. We are talking about friction while juxtaposing one Tibi piece with another Tibi piece, while there is a whole world of clothing out there that is completely, insanely, beautifully different. For example, look at these two thrift-store jacket finds - now these are truly antonyms and real friction compared to the usual Tibi aesthetic.

As a result, I bought a number of pieces that I would usually never wear and after the experiment, decided to play with how to incorporate them into my outfits. Surprisingly, I found them to be quite versatile.

Lilac Lace Shirt

This is a piece I truly despised when purchasing it. I found it pretentious, fussy, and overall completely not my style. That feeling did not change much, but I also saw how it could work in outfits. This shirt is a bit too tight and too short for me (it would be a much more interesting piece if it were oversized or at least relaxed), but it does provide excellent collar detail. Have a look.

Salanida sweater, Cos pants, Wandler bag, Tibi sweater, Le Monde Beryl flats, Tibi red skirt.

I also tried it as a layer under a jacket, but the tightness of the button up spoiled it a bit. Nevertheless, I also tried tying it around the waist, which was better, though still not stunning. But the popped collar I do really like.

Tibi red skirt, Le Monde Beryl flats, Uniqlo T-shirt, Uniqlo JW Anderson parka.

Vintage Jacket

I bought this one because it fit me so well, and I think it can go with a number of items, but I found it works much better with relaxed or wide bottoms, which also feel more modern. Have a look at it with the Tibi wide-leg pants.

Tibi pants, Uniqlo T-shirt, Le Monde Beryl flats, .

For my conservative outfit experiment, I tried it with a Tibi dress, and you can see it is really conservative and looks really poorly.

Tibi dress (heavily modified though, similar material here), Flattered heels.

However, when paired with truly relaxed items, it shines. My theory is that we are moving back toward a more dressed-up era and will be walking around in sweats much less, so these types of jackets are making a comeback.

Crocheted Jacket

I had high hopes for this, but unfortunately, as a jacket, it proved to be a bit too small and a bit too tight for me.

Cos pants, Le Monde Beryl flats, The Curated tank

However, it is a great way to add interest and texture when tied around the waist - crochet is so pretty!

Maxmara dress, Uniqlo jacket (similar), Flattered bag (similar), Le Monde Beryl flats, Tibi red skirt, The Curated sweater.

However, the true potential of this jacket appeared when my 5-year-old borrowed it and used it as a long trench - it was floor length on her. I started wishing for a similar “coat” in my size - what a hero piece for summer!

Blue and Red Poncho

I got this poncho as an attempt to create a bohemian outfit for my experiment. This one is a bit more problematic, in my opinion, as it is two steps outside of my style - a very unusual shape combined with really bright colors. Still, it is possible to wear it by combining it with some very modern pieces.

Cos pants, Lie studio wallet and necklace, Front Row shop necklace, Flattered bag, Le Monde Beryl flats.

I did style it in my bedroom, but I have not worn it out in the open yet. It might be too much for me, so do not count on me wearing it!

Le Monde Beryl flats, Tibi red skirt.

Interesting Tops

This mauve top and this purple top were also at the precious price of 1 EUR. Even though they are fairly simple, I find them quite different from my usual COS/Tibi purchases. The texture of the mauve one is not exactly modern, and the purple one has a bit of a vintage cut. Since the purple one is so relaxed, I think there are many ways to wear it, and here are both tops with my wardrobe.

Toteme jeans, Zara pumps (second hand), Front Row shop necklace, Flattered bag, Uniqlo jacket (similar), Cos pants, H&M belt (old).

So that is it - if you truly want friction, I highly recommend venturing outside of familiar brand territory and into the unknown. And who knows, maybe you will find something interesting at a fraction of the price!