A Simple Minimalist Secondhand Winter Capsule Wardrobe

In a world that is focused on instant gratification, it can be hard not to impulse buy because it is quick, and easy, and you will see the results almost immediately.

With secondhand shopping you have to be willing to put in the time it requires to find something that you are looking for.

In today’s world fashion trends have been changing so fast it is ridiculous, and fast fashion often feels like the easiest way to stay stylish without spending a fortune.

And I know that fast fashion is often the only choice that many people have due to budgets and not having access to thrift stores.

I get it, but we need to slow down and stop focusing on trends to build our wardrobes and make the switch to finding and focusing on our style.

This means that you will be spending less for one-season pieces and putting that money towards buying items that are going to last you for years.

Instead of one $25 sweater that is going to look misshapen and worn after only wearing it a handful of times, funnel that money towards a secondhand cashmere sweater that will continue to look and feel beautiful with proper care.

Because you need to take care of your clothes, which is a style tip I take seriously.

Read care instructions, buy a sweater shaver, and fold knits don’t hang them.

I also want to note that vintage and thrifted pieces often have better craftsmanship and quality materials, making them more durable and timeless compared to cheaply made fast fashion.

Next time you are in a thrift store compare a vintage sweater with a fast fashion brand that you find there and see what a difference there is between the two.

Consignment shops are for my secondhand designer purchases. I have a handful of my favourite stores that I check daily.

These types of stores have a quick turnover rate so if you find something you like you generally don’t have a lot of time to think about it.

The bonus is that you can go back to them if you want to resell the item.

eBay and Esty I use for vintage or hard to find items since it is worldwide which widens your availability options.

But regardless of where I am looking, there is always a specific list of pieces that I keep my eye open for which I am going to break down for you.

1. Classic Outerwear

Look for high-quality coats, blazers, or leather jackets. Vintage wool peacoats, trench coats, or tailored blazers in neutral tones are timeless and durable.

You will often find vintage designer brands that are in incredible shape, have magnificent craftsmanship and are a fraction of the cost.

3. Button Ups

Specifically men’s button-ups. The first section I gravitate to in a thrift store is the men’s section for this very reason.

They are roomy, better quality, have better colours, and often have wrinkle-free options. I find that most of my women’s button-ups start to look raggedy quickly even after a good iron.

But my men’s tend to keep their shape better, and don’t seem to wrinkle as badly.

4. Quality Knitwear

Search for 100% wool, cashmere, or chunky knits. Check for small holes or signs of wear, but many can be mended easily.

Even silk or 100% cotton knits like vintage Ralph Lauren are great and multi-seasonal as well.

5. Handbags

Vintage bags are my number one consignment item. All of my designer bags are secondhand and are bought because I love them and not because they are the newest IT bag.

I personally do not look for super trendy bags because they tend to be ridiculous prices even on the secondhand market.

6. Shoes

A lot of people have issues with secondhand shoes but I never have. You can clean them, replace the insole or whatever you have to do that makes you feel better.

Because honestly, when you buy new shoes there is no telling how many feet have also tried those on.

Leather boots, flats, or loafers are usually my favourite finds. Check for wear on the soles and consider resoling if needed.

Sometimes a little polish or leather conditioner is all they need so you need to be able to see the potential after you clean them up.

I have the brown boots, but in black. I love their kind of 80s slouchy vibe.

7. Jewellery

I am a costume jewellery person, more so than classic and I find that costume jewellery or vintage pieces can be more unique and just as stylish.

Look for statement necklaces, brooches, or timeless earrings.

Never ever underestimate the power of a good brooch. From wearing it on a sweater to pinning it to your scarf or hat, it just adds that extra something.

I feel like we lost our love for brooches over the years, so next time you are thrifting, go look in the jewellery counter for an old brooch to spice up your accessories game.

8. Sunglasses

This is where I profess my love for Celine sunglasses. I don’t know what it is about them but every pair I have ever tried on has just somehow worked which never happens with me.

I think every wardrobe needs one really good pair of sunglasses.

The black cat eye is a classic and what I am in the market for. I got lucky and found these a few years ago, but I would also love a larger black pair. So maybe I need two really good pairs of sunglasses.

9. Vintage T-Shirts

Band tees, graphic prints, or soft vintage cotton shirts are fun and often trendy items to find secondhand.

This is where I talk to you about single stitch versus double stitched tees and how single stitched are more sought after.

If you look at the sleeves on the t-shirt you’re wearing now, check to see if it has two strands of thread running around the opening or one. If it has two, chances are that it’s a newer shirt, like late-‘90s and later. If there’s one, it’s older, likely vintage.

So if a shirt is single stitched all over then it’s probably from the 70’s or 80’s. Sometime in the late 80’s and early 90’s they began to manufacture shirts with double stitching on the shoulders,and sometimes on the bottom hem.

During the late 90’s the double stitch then transitioned to the sleeve cuffs and basically every contemporary t-shirt that was made in the 2000s will have double stitching.

So that is my Ted Talk on vintage tees. It will also help you to identify if a band tee is vintage or not as well because honestly, it can be hard to tell with how vintage they can make them look nowadays.

10. Accessories

The last things that I always make certain to look for are accessories like scarves (both cashmere and silk), ties, gloves, hats, and belts.

One brand of belt that I love is vintage Etienne Aigner, they are so unique and fun. Etienne Aigner is well worth a search for all products though because I have seen some fabulous vests, trench coats, and leather bags as well.

If you can find a leather belt in good condition secondhand, grab it.

Quick Tips for Shopping Secondhand:

Have a Plan: Keep an ongoing list, and know your budget.

Check Labels: Pay attention to what they are made from because natural fibres are worth the investment.

Inspect Items Carefully: Look for damage, stains, or odours that might be hard to fix.

Know Your Brands: Familiarize yourself with high-quality or designer brands to spot them quickly, and if you are unsure Google it. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you find.

Alteration Potential: Consider whether items can be tailored or upcycled.

Explore Different Sections: Don’t limit yourself to size or gender.

Go Beyond Trends: Focus on pieces that fit your personal style and have lasting appeal rather than trendy fast fashion.

Patience is Key: It may take time to find the perfect pieces, it is not a race with a finish line. Building a wardrobe is a lifelong journey so be slow and mindful with your selections.

Note: I had to make some last-minute switches with the pieces I included because they already sold out, which is part of the process. Unfortunately, you snooze, you lose is one of the risks you have to be willing to take.

I am now offering digital styling guides, and personal styling services. If you are looking for some styling help that is inexpensive and easy, check out my digital styling guides. If you want some one-on-one help shopping, building and editing your wardrobe, or packing for a trip, I can also assist. Check out all the styling services that I offer here.

This post contains affiliate links. By using my links to shop I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). Thanks for supporting what I do 

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