Hey! 👋 It’s your friendly neighborhood fashionista here, and I’ve got some amazing tips for all you frugal fashionistas out there looking to spice up your thrifted wardrobe finds. 😉 Whether you are trying to save money or just love the thrill of the hunt, thrift shopping is amazing, and it’s a great way to find unique pieces. However, sometimes the items you find can be a bit…dated. Fear not! With some creativity, you can breathe new life into your thrifted finds. Here are ten creative ways to revamp your thrifted treasures:

1. Add Embroidery or Patches 🧵

One fun way to give your thrifted clothing a new look is by adding embroidery or patches. You can pick up embroidery floss or patches at your local craft store or online. Pick out a design or phrase that you love and stitch it onto your clothing. Adding floral designs or motivational quotes will make your thrifted finds a one of a kind.

A denim jacket with floral embroidery on the back displayed on a hanger with other denim pieces.

2. Cut It Up 🔪

Another way to change your thrifted clothing is to cut it up! You can make cut off shorts, crop tops, and even dresses. Don’t forget to distress any denim you cut to give it a worn-in look. Be careful not to cut too much off, though. You can always cut more, but you can’t put fabric back on.

A pair of cut off shorts made out of an old pair of jeans displayed on a hanger with other shorts.

3. Dye It 💧

Dyeing your thrifted clothing is a super easy way to give it new life. You can use fabric dye to create a new color on any item of clothing. Be sure to follow instructions carefully to avoid any mishaps. Tie-dye is also a fun and trendy option.

A white t-shirt dipped into a pot of purple dye on a stove burner.

4. Add Studs or Rhinestones 💎

Adding studs or rhinestones to clothing is a great way to give it some edge or glam, depending on your style. Buy some hot-fix studs or rhinestones and get to work. You can add them to collars, pockets, or all over.

A denim jacket with studs on the shoulders displayed on a hanger with other jackets.

5. Sew on Lace or Trim 🧶

Sewing on lace or trim can be a subtle yet impactful way to revamp your thrifted finds. Add lace to the hem of a skirt or trim to the cuffs of a shirt. This will give your clothing a romantic or vintage feel.

A white dress with lace added around the neckline displayed on a hanger with other white dresses.

6. Dip Dye It 🌈

Instead of dyeing your thrifted clothing one color, consider dip-dyeing it. Dip your clothing item halfway into the dye to create an ombre effect. This works best with lighter fabrics like cotton or linen.

A white t-shirt gradually changing from pink to white to blue gradient displayed on a hanger with other tie-dye clothing items.

7. Reuse the Fabric ♻️

If you have a thrifted clothing item that is irreparable or doesn’t fit quite right, don’t throw it out. You can reuse the fabric! Cut clothing into squares and use it to make a patchwork blanket. Or you can use the fabric as stuffing for a DIY bean bag chair.

A patchwork quilt made out of old clothing pieces laid out on a bed.

8. Add Pom-Poms 🎉

Pom-poms are a cheery way to add a pop of color to your thrifted clothing items. Buy some pom-pom fringe or pom-pom balls and sew them onto clothing items. You can add them to sleeves, hems, or create an entire pom-pom sweater.

A white sweater with multicolored pom-poms sewn on the front displayed on a hanger with other sweaters.

9. Use Fabric Paint 🎨

Fabric paint is an easy way to add color and design to your thrifted clothing. You can buy fabric paint at your local craft store and transfer a stencil design or freehand paint a design onto your clothing item.

A white t-shirt with a hand-painted leaf design displayed on a hanger with other white t-shirts.

10. Add Pockets 🔍

Finally, consider adding pockets to your thrifted clothing. Pockets are one of fashion’s greatest inventions and can add a functional yet personal touch to your clothing. You can add pockets to pants, jackets, or even skirts.

A denim jacket with added large patch pockets displayed on a hanger with other denim jackets.

There you have it! Ten creative ways to revamp your thrifted clothing finds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and styles. Always keep a look out for thrifted clothing items that you can give a second life. Who knows? You might create the next up and coming sustainable fashion trend.

A collage of all the different thrifted clothing items that were brilliantly revamped and redesigned in unique ways.