you want to look expensive without spending your rent money, right? Yeah, same. And with fall peeking around the corner—cue the pumpkin spice everything—it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe. But before you spiral into a full-blown online shopping binge, let me hit you with some truth: you can find high-end looking fall outfits straight from the thrift store.
No, seriously. I've been doing it for years. And if you’ve ever snagged a vintage wool blazer for $6 and felt like you owned a yacht, you already know the magic.
Let’s get into it—early fall thrifted outfit ideas that scream designer but cost less than a fancy latte ☕.
1. The Oversized Blazer + Turtleneck Combo
Let’s be honest—an oversized blazer is fall’s holy grail. Toss it over anything and suddenly you’re giving off “I do PR for a fashion house” energy.
Why It Works:
- Structured shape = instant sophistication.
- Layering power is unmatched. Hot at noon, chilly by 5? This look handles it.
- Turtleneck adds that I-read-The-New-Yorker kind of vibe.
What to Look for at the Thrift:
- Wool or tweed fabric (they age beautifully and look luxe).
- Neutral colors like camel, gray, navy, or black.
- Check the shoulder fit—too wide and you’ll look like you raided your dad’s closet in the worst way.
Quick Styling Tip:
Pair with straight-leg jeans and loafers, and suddenly people will assume you just flew in from Copenhagen.
| Look | Why It Slaps |
|---|---|
| Oversized Blazer + Turtleneck + Jeans | Effortless, chic, and screams old-money minimalism |
2. Midi Skirts + Chunky Sweaters = Peak Fall Chic
Ever worn a chunky knit sweater tucked into a silky midi skirt and caught your own reflection like, “Okay, wow, who's this editorial queen?” No? You’re about to.
Why It Works:
- Texture contrast (soft knits + sleek skirts) gives serious dimension.
- It’s comfy but also very “I’m meeting someone for wine after work.”
Thrift Store Treasure Hunt:
- Look for pleated, slip, or A-line midi skirts.
- For sweaters, go big or go home: chunky cable knits, vintage Ralph Lauren, or slouchy fisherman styles.
Personal Note:
I once found a 100% cashmere J.Crew sweater for $4.99. I wore it with a $3 satin skirt and got compliments all day. Moral of the story? Nobody knows, and nobody needs to.
3. Denim on Denim—but Make It Luxe
I know, I know. Denim on denim has been dragged through the mud (thanks, 2001 Britney & Justin), but hear me out—it’s all about the fit and wash.
How to Pull It Off:
- Mix slightly different denim tones—light jacket with darker jeans? Chef’s kiss.
- Choose denim pieces with modern cuts (cropped jacket, high-waist jeans, etc.)
- Accessorize with a belt, dainty gold jewelry, and a sleek bag.
What to Look For:
- Cropped or oversized jean jackets (skip anything that screams 90s acid-wash unless that’s your vibe).
- High-rise straight or wide-leg jeans—they’ll make you look taller. Like, magic.
Quick Tip:
Keep it monochrome for that clean, high-end aesthetic. Add a white tee underneath and boom, you look like you brunch in Paris.
4. Leather (or Faux Leather) Accents = Instant Elevation
Here’s the secret: one leather piece can elevate your entire look. I don’t make the rules.
What You Can Find at the Thrift:
- Leather trousers (yes, they’re out there).
- Mini or midi skirts—especially in burgundy or olive.
- Leather trench coats—you’ll feel like a femme fatale in the best way.
Why This Slaps:
- Leather looks expensive even when it’s not.
- Pairs beautifully with fall staples: turtlenecks, boots, button-ups, etc.
Warning:
If it squeaks when you walk... maybe don’t buy it 😅
5. Button-Ups Aren’t Just for the Office
Crisp, oversized button-ups are basically the Swiss Army knife of fall fashion. They layer well, they’re comfy, and they make you look put-together even when you rolled out of bed ten minutes ago.
Here’s the Play:
- Thrift a men’s button-up shirt (think pinstripes, light blue, or white).
- Wear it open over a tank + jeans, or tuck it into trousers.
Pair With:
- Chunky gold hoops.
- Loafers or boots.
- A sleek tote or crossbody bag.
IMO:
You can’t go wrong with this look. It’s one of those “Oh, she knows what she’s doing” outfits.
6. Don’t Sleep on Knit Dresses
I used to scroll past knit dresses thinking they were boring. Then I actually tried one on. Game. Changed.
Why It’s Perfect for Fall:
- One-and-done outfit = minimal effort, max impact.
- Warms you up but still breathes (aka no sweating through your stylish efforts).
- Looks amazing under a trench, leather jacket, or even that thrifted blazer you just scored 😉
What to Look For:
- Midi length is ideal for that sleek silhouette.
- Earthy colors = always a win. Think olive, cream, chocolate brown.
- Bonus points if you find one with a slit or ribbed texture.
7. Trench Coats Are Fall’s Power Move
Ever thrown on a trench coat and immediately felt like a boss walking out of a coffee shop in a dramatic movie scene? Because that’s exactly the vibe.
Why a Trench Is a Fall Must-Have:
- It screams effortless elegance.
- It instantly pulls together even your laziest outfit (yes, even leggings).
- Perfect for layering without overheating.
Thrift Shopping Tips:
- Look for classic beige or khaki, but don’t sleep on navy, olive, or plaid.
- Check for sturdy stitching and that the belt is still attached (thrift coats love to lose belts—it’s a thing).
- Avoid ones that are too shiny or stiff. You want flowy, not trash bag chic.
| Style It With | For This Look |
|---|---|
| Hoodie + Leggings + Trench | Casual cool girl energy |
| Button-up + Jeans + Loafers + Trench | Classy, timeless perfection |
Belt it for a cinched waist, or leave it open for that nonchalant, “Oh this? Just something I threw on” feel.
8. Statement Boots Will Save Every Basic Outfit
Let’s talk boots. If your outfit feels a little “meh,” add killer boots and suddenly you’re Vogue-ready.
Types of Boots to Hunt Down:
- Knee-high leather boots (black, brown, or even white if you’re feeling bold).
- Chelsea boots with a thick sole? Yes please.
- Pointed-toe ankle boots? Chic and perfect for date night.
Best Part?
You can style boots with basically everything:
- Sweater dresses
- Midi skirts
- Oversized blazers + mini skirts
- Jeans + trench combos
Personal Rant:
I once thrifted a pair of real leather knee-high boots for $12. Twelve. Dollars. I strutted out of that store like I was on a Milan runway. Just saying—you never know what you’ll find 😌
9. Mix Textures Like You Mean It
Here’s where we get a little artsy. Mixing textures = the easiest way to look expensive without even trying.
Try These Combos:
- Wool blazer + satin slip skirt
- Knit top + faux leather pants
- Corduroy jacket + denim skirt
Why It Works:
- Texture adds depth and interest.
- It looks intentional and elevated, even if you got everything for under $10.
Thrifting Strategy:
Keep your eyes open for unique materials:
- Corduroy
- Velvet
- Satin
- Tweed
- Faux shearling
Pro tip: Stick to a neutral color palette when mixing textures so it doesn’t get chaotic.
10. Vintage Graphic Tees + Tailored Pieces
We’re all about contrast. A vintage band tee with a tailored blazer or pencil skirt? Chef’s kiss.
Why This Combo Slaps:
- The tee adds edge, the tailored piece brings the polish.
- You look like you’re effortlessly cool (and you are, obvi).
What to Look For:
- Authentic vintage tees (bonus if they’re soft and faded).
- Structured trousers, pleated skirts, or sharp-shouldered blazers to contrast the casualness.
Real Talk:
This look works best when you let one piece be the “star.” If the tee is loud, keep everything else clean and chic.
11. Accessorize Like a Pro (Because Details Matter)
Accessories can make or break a thrifted outfit. You could wear a $5 dress, but if you throw on a chunky gold necklace, structured bag, and a slicked-back bun? Boom. High-end vibes.
Thrift Store Gold:
- Vintage leather handbags
- Silk scarves (tie it on your neck, bag, or hair—super versatile)
- Statement belts (especially croc-textured or wide cinch styles)
- Jewelry that looks weighty—don’t go for flimsy chains
.webp)
IMO:
It’s not about quantity, it’s about that one piece that makes your look pop.
12. Layer Like You’re Building a Fashion Sandwich
Fall is layering season, and this is where your thrift game can really shine. Think of each layer as adding flavor—yes, like a sandwich. Don’t judge.
Go-To Layering Formula:
- Base Layer: Fitted turtleneck or tee
- Middle Layer: Cardigan, button-up, or thin sweater
- Outer Layer: Jacket, coat, or oversized blazer
- Accessories: Scarf, bag, jewelry, hat
Why It’s Genius:
- You create dimension.
- It lets you show off more thrift finds at once.
- Plus, it’s actually practical—weather changes every five minutes in fall, right?
Style Hack:
Keep your base layers fitted so you don’t end up looking like a burrito with arms 😬
Final Thoughts
Thrifting for early fall? Honestly, it’s one of the most fun and satisfying fashion moves you can make. You get to experiment, find quality gems for dirt cheap, and curate a wardrobe that actually looks like you—not some cookie-cutter store mannequin.
Here’s a little wrap-up, because we love a good summary:
| Key Fall Piece | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Oversized Blazer | Layers well, always looks sharp |
| Knit Dress | Cozy, easy, chic AF |
| Trench Coat | Adds instant drama and polish |
| Statement Boots | Elevate even the simplest outfit |
| Vintage Accessories | Small touches, huge impact |
Now go out there and thrift like you mean it 💅
If you want a follow-up on how to spot quality at the thrift store or how to wash and care for secondhand items without ruining them, let me know—I’ve got tips for days. 😉