5 Trends You Need to Thrift This Spring

Seasonal changes mean changes in your wardrobe.

Bright colors come out to play for the springtime

Naturally, as temperatures start to rise, your wardrobe will reflect that. You'll say goodbye to those oversized trench coats and beanies (for now, at least), and say hello to dressing in lighter, more revealing clothing, typically displaying brighter colors.

Springtime provides the chance to refresh your closet and begin experimenting with new pieces without the constraints of dressing practically for cold weather. But what exactly should you refresh and purchase for this spring?

I've compiled a list to help you figure out just that:

You begin to wear lighter and airier clothing, such as tank tops and skirts.

1. Lace and Sheer Fabrics

Adding these fabrics to your wardrobe is a great way to add texture and dimension to your outfits. They immediately add a little extra oomph, creating a unique and visual pleasing piece.

It's great for the springtime because it's airy yet still gives you some coverage for when that cool breeze hits.

A current trend right now is pairing a tulle skirt over jeans. It simultaneously feels elevated yet dressed down.

Thrifting for these fabrics is fairly simple because you can scan whichever section you choose, typically the tops or skirts sections, and search for this material. It stands out from the rest of the basic cotton clothing items around it, so you should be able to easily find it.

The addition of the lace skirt instantly makes this look more interesting.

2. Sustainable Blues

This past year the color red was seen everywhere as an accent color: tights, purses, boots, you name it. However, we're sensing a shift to a more tranquil blue. The contrast comes just in time to reflect the blue skies that we're about to see.

The color blue goes with everything, and there are various shades to pick from. A brighter blue hue is a great color to add to your wardrobe when you want to make a statement. It can really offset edgier pieces you decide to style, bringing an overall balance to your looks.

It's easy to find in thrift stores as well because narrowing down what you're looking for to a certain color immediately eliminates anything else that isn't in that color. You can be quick and efficient when walking the aisles.

Blue accessories, such as hats and shoes, are an especially fun touch to any outfit.

3. Maxi Skirts' and their Versatility

Skirts are an easy go-to during springtime because not only are they comfortable but they're stylish. You can choose from all sorts of materials like linen, silk, denim, or cotton.

Whatever aesthetic you have, you're bound to find a maxi skirt that fits it. For example, you can dress up a white flowy maxi for a more feminine, cottagecore aesthetic, or you can dress down the same skirt for a more casual, streetwear aesthetic. The decision is yours.

Maxi skirts also provide freedom in shape. You can really experiment and decide if you like the oversized look, or if you want to pair it with a cropped t-shirt for a more snatched look. You can even layer by adding sweaters, long sleeves, or tights underneath your outfit to add dimension.

A boho and Y2K take on a maxi skirt.

4. Fabric Patterns: Stripes

Time to show your true stripes! We're going back to our roots with this classic pattern that dominated the 2010s. However, instead of thick stripes in bold colors, we're opting for a thinner and classier version.

Thin, vertical stripes add just enough detail to an outfit without it becoming too busy. Even when they're colorful, they don't detract from the overall ensemble.

However, if you do desire a flashier version and want to mix things up, then try pairing stripes with another pattern such as houndstooth.

When thrifting, the best place to consistently find stripes would be in the men's dress shirts section, or in the women's sweater section. You can also look in the dress/pantsuit section if you want a more fitted and structured set.

Casual and comfortable striped streetwear.

5. Basic Wardrobe Staples

A trend that has really taken off and stuck around is the old money aesthetic. It's chic, it's timeless, and it's all about dressing in a clean yet sophisticated way. Think of Princess Diana, our icon.

The best way to achieve this look? Invest in some wardrobe staples. Neutral colors, cardigans, button-ups, and fitted trousers especially.

These pieces are great when it comes to the foundation of an outfit, and really allow you room to experiment with how you incorporate them into your style.

Plus, if you're on a time crunch or you don't feel like curating a new unique look for the day, you can never go wrong with the old money aesthetic. It gives off the appearance that you spent time and effort on your outfit when in actuality it was fairly quick.

When thrifting, just like when you're looking for stripes (which play into the old money aesthetic), check the men's section. This is especially great if you're looking for an oversized button-up. The sweater section is great for cardigans, but so is the children's section if you're just looking for one to drape over your shoulders and not get in the way.

The old money aesthetic gives off European chic.

Feeling inspired to spring into a new style?

The next time you’re in the thrift store, be on the lookout for these trends and pieces to prepare yourself for the upcoming season. They're sure to provide a fresh start to your wardrobe.