How to Thrift your Dream Winter Wardrobe in the UK

Brat summer is over and it’s consistently raining...

Time to shake off that September sadness with some thrift therapy... and actually start getting excited about the upcoming cold season!

Here’s how you can thrift your dream winter wardrobe this autumn.

1. Know What You Need

Start by assessing your winter essentials. Take the opportunity to explore the depths of your wardrobe and discover what you actually need. A warm coat, knitwear, and boots are key. Prioritise timeless, versatile pieces that can be layered and mixed.

2. Get Inspired

Pinterest and Tiktok are great places to get style inspiration. Find outfits you like and figure out why you like them? Take into consideration the colours, layering and texture. Start putting together a list of pieces you are going to be looking out for.

3. Visit Charity Shops

Chazza shops can be gold mines for winter finds.

Top Tip: Work smart not hard! Head to areas with affluent communities for high-quality donations, like leather boots, wool coats, and cashmere sweaters.

Timing matters too –If you can, visit during weekdays when shops are less crowded, giving you the best shot at uncovering hidden gems. 

In early autumn, you can also catch the end of carboot season. Car boot sales are the perfect place to maximise your coin, but get ready to wake up early on the Lord’s Day of rest and search through a lot of rubbish! Be warned: Carbooting is not for the faint hearted. Head to Facebook to find out where your local carboot is.

4. Check Out Online Thrift Platforms

Want to get your thrift on without leaving the house, Depop and Vinted are your go-to's.

Here are our keyword tips:

Looking for girly Y2K: Search for afghan coats, pointed toe leather boots, cropped cardigans.

Check out these brands: Faith, 00's New Look, Jane Norman and 00's Topshop

Looking for men’s streetwear: Search for grandad jumpers, spell out graphic sweatshirts, bomber jackets, branded jumpers

Check our these brands: Carhartt, Vintage Nike, Coogi, North Face

5. Be Patient and Persistent

Thrifting requires patience. Go back regularly to your favourite charity shops as stock changes often. Depop and Vinted will also recommend items tailored to your preferences based on your previous searches, so be sure to check them out frequently.

6. Tailors and cobblers

Remember that if you fall in love with an item that doesn’t quite fit, alterations can be made. Heels can be reheeled, buttons can be changed and trousers can be hemmed. If you are no DIY Diane, head to google to find your nearest tailor or cobbler; prices can be pretty reasonable.

So with a dash of strategy and a keen eye, thrifting your winter wardrobe can be the best thing you do this September.

It’s giving endorphin increase...

Happy Thrifting!

Best of luck with your thrifting! Let us know: did these tips help you score anything good?!

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