If your favorite fashion pieces from the past are collecting dust in the corner of your garage, it may be time to bring them back out, thanks to a surprising upcycling tip.
Stylist Beth Jones shared how she gave dated 1980s and '90s thrift store frocks a facelift for 2024 in a viral video, with viewers shocked by the easy hack she's been using for the past 17 years.
The simple trick sees over the top vintage dresses chopped in half to create wearable and eye-catching tops – perfect for adding a new element to your wardrobe.
When it comes to statement pieces, the '80s reigns supreme, and now bold is back, as fashion lovers search for conversation starters and unconventional styles to stand out from the crowd – but sustainability is also a key issue that can be overlooked.
Jones took to TikTok to show how versatile thrifted and secondhand pieces can be, gaining over 290,000 views and 21,000 likes since March 8.
Speaking to Newsweek, the 43-year-old from Orange County shared: "I've been doing this for years - going back to when I first started collecting vintage - sometime around 2007.
"I always love these gorgeous '80s and '90s dresses with puff sleeves, or dramatic details. I have worn them as the dress, but they become so much more versatile when I either make them into separates [a skirt and top] or just a top."
Jones' finds so far include a structured black and white patterned peplum that "screams Schiaparelli" and a bold and bright turquoise number with oversized ruffle sleeves.
The versatility of the items is a key reason why Jones loves them, and she shared: "You can style them in such fun ways - with a denim and heels that are perfect for a fun night out, or elevate another skirt with the top. The ideas are endless."
Achieving the look is surprisingly easy, as she explained: "At times, I just chop off the bottom and leave the edge raw - I'm not great at replacing zippers - but most of the time I take them to a seamstress, and she chops and replaces the zipper to fit snuggly as a crop top."
3 More Thrifting Tips From a Stylist
Gather Inspiration Before You Thrift
By going in with a game plan you can make a somewhat overwhelming experience more enjoyable, as well as saving time looking through rails aimlessly.
"Put together images that can inspire your finds," suggested Jones.
"You may notice a great oversized blazer, a chic belt or a sweater that's drawing your attention. Once you have that inspiration head into the thrift store and look for those types of pieces."
Don't Overlook the Men's Section
It can be easy to run straight to rails in your size, but don't downplay the possibility to find some absolute gems in the men's section - especially when it comes to tailoring.
When it comes to what to reach for, Jones recommended to "shop in the men's for denim, blazer, athletic wear, buttons downs and all the classics."
Always Check the Tags
Thrifting is a great way to find designer pieces on a budget, and there could be some incredible brands hidden within baskets and bins at your local store.
A good label isn't just about the name on it, as Jones explained: "Either use them to find the best quality fabrics, brands that you love or for me I'm looking for vintage so I'm always looking for a vintage tag."
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Lollie is Newsweek's Beauty and Self Care Reporter based in London, U.K. In her role, she covers a range of ... Read more
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