Dear readers,
Here at Goodwill, we are a bit fashion obsessed and we are always happy to see when others are, too. This week we are thrilled to feature a guest post from Laura of sweetersalt, in which she explores how to modernize those grandmother finds at Goodwill – what we like to call fashion forward thinking.
Modernizing the Granny Look
Ok, I’ll admit it. I have a weakness for certain “old lady” items. You know, those skirts, dresses and blazers that your grandmother may have worn in the 70’s and 80’s? Yeah, those – but listen! Grammy wasn’t playing around, she knew what she was doing. Those garments are often made with quality and have some unique styles. The good news – Goodwill has tons of amazing granny styles just waiting for you. Now, since we’re not octogenarians (and if you are, I hope you’re a stylish one), here are some tips to avoid actually looking like Grammy in 1982.
Use modern accessories
I love this vintage, high-waisted, full wool skirt. Lady-like styles are big this Fall and Winter, so this was a great find. However, it could have looked a little dated. To balance it, I added a wide leather belt, opaque tights and some great heels. The look is vintage without being over the top.
Add something unexpected
I recently found this light peach floral skirt that could have looked very pastel 80’s (for the record – not a cute look). To make up for it, I wore brown tights, distressed leather boots and a scarf at the waist. The look is still girly, but without crossing the line into frosted lipstick and double bangs territory (shudder).
Tone down a loud print with modern neutrals
I am pretty plaid obsessed (I do live in Maine after all!) so I nearly died when I happened upon this super fun tartan blazer. It could definitely start looking very 70’s / “my 6th grade music teacher’s Christmas concert outfit” if worn with red or green. However, mixing it up with black, gray and saddle leather brown tones it down a bit. Try mixing other loud vintage prints with a heavy dose of neutrals to update your look.
Be on the lookout for vintage basics
This red skirt is one of my favorites – very basic, but still fun. I wear it all the time. The best part – I paid under $5 for it. I t doesn’t appear vintage to the naked eye, the tag however speaks another story. This is very much an 80’s skirt (I believe the brand is Golden Coast Petites or something), but you can’t tell. Goodwill is chock full of great pieces like this, classics that will never go out of fashion. Snap ‘em up.
Good luck out there vintage lovers! Peruse those racks with open eyes, you never know what you’ll find.
Oh yay! Thanks!
Love the flowy skirt in the top picture as well as the plaid jacket with the neutral pants and top. Very nice!
However, maybe it is just the picture, but the red skirt looks too small and tight for you (it hugs your stomach) – not as flattering as the other pics. All in all – good job thrifting
Hope to see more from your future ventures.
Yes! Lovely outfits, Laura!
I love the ideas! I won a Goodwill makeover through Goodwill of DE. I can’t wait!