As the leaves begin to turn and crispness fills the air, it’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe for fall. What better way to do it sustainably and affordably than by heading to The Salvation Army Thrift Store? This ultimate guide to thrifting fall fashion shows you how to embrace this season’s trends with pre-loved finds.
We’ve picked looks that showcase a variety of aesthetics, including maximalism, minimalism, and soft girl style, so there’s something for everyone’s taste. Get ready to fall in love with these stylish and budget-friendly outfit ideas!
1. The “Seattle” Look: Cozy and Chic
One of the biggest trends for fall is the effortlessly cool, oversized sweatshirt. We found this vintage-inspired dark green “SEATTLE” crewneck and paired it with a deep burgundy pleated midi skirt. The combination of the casual, sporty top with the elegant skirt creates a perfect balance of comfort and style. This look is ideal for a chilly day out, whether you’re grabbing a coffee with friends or exploring a new neighbourhood. Finish it off with a pair of chunky boots for a modern edge.
Key Pieces:
- Oversized sweatshirt
- Pleated midi skirt
- Statement boots
2. The Cottagecore Dream
Embrace the cozy, romantic aesthetic of cottagecore with this charming outfit. We found this cream-coloured knit sweater with embroidered green floral details, which feels straight out of a storybook. We styled it with a flowing, dark green lace maxi skirt. The combination is both elegant and earthy, making it a perfect choice for a fall picnic or a walk in the park. This look is all about mixing textures and natural tones to create a soft and inviting silhouette.
Key Pieces:
- Embroidered or detailed knit sweater
- Lace or long floral skirt
- Natural tones
Watch our Collaborator Anna, showcase her demure thrift haul giving you more thriftspiration for fall sweaters.
3. The Soft Lilac: Pastels for Fall
Who says pastels are just for spring? This fall, a soft, whimsical colour palette is a fresh and unexpected trend. We found this beautiful lilac crochet cardigan and paired it with delicate, striped pants. The relaxed fit of the pants and the intricate detail of the cardigan create a dreamy, layered look that’s perfect for a cozy day at home or a casual outing. The mix of textures, from the chunky knit to the lightweight cotton, adds interest and depth to the outfit.
Key Pieces:
- Crochet or knit cardigan
- Patterned or striped trousers
- White or cream base layer
4.The Classic Polka Dot: A Timeless Touch
Polka dots are a print that never goes out of style, and they’re especially fun to play with in the fall. We spotted this vibrant red and white polka dot top and built a versatile look around it. The classic A-line denim skirt is a perfect match, cinched at the waist with a red belt to pull the outfit together. For a layered look that’s perfect for transitioning weather, we’ve styled it two ways:
Option 1: The Trench Coat. A long, khaki-coloured trench coat adds a sophisticated, put-together feel. The length and neutral tone of the coat allow the polka dots to pop, creating a chic and timeless ensemble.
Option 2: The Leather Jacket. For an edgier, more casual vibe, swap the trench for a black leather jacket. This gives the look a cool, rock-and-roll feel while still being comfortable and stylish.
Key Pieces:
- Polka dot top
- A-line denim skirt
- Red belt
- Khaki trench coat or black leather jacket
The Treasure Hunt: Finding Amazing Brands and Fabrics
The real thrill of thrifting is discovering high-quality pieces from well-known brands. Keep an eye out for labels like Zara, H&M, Wilfred Babaton, J. Crew, and Missguided. These brands often make their way to thrift store racks, giving you the chance to own a trendy item for a fraction of the original price.
Beyond the brand name, pay attention to the fabric content. Natural fibers like wool, cashmere, 100% cotton, and silkare often more durable, comfortable, and sustainable than synthetic blends. Check the care tag to find these materials. A 100% cashmere sweater or a pure silk blouse is a truly incredible thrift store find that will elevate your wardrobe for years to come.
Thrifting for fall fashion is not just about finding great pieces; it’s about embracing creativity and sustainability! Find your local thrift store and happy thrifting!
Looking for thrifting inspo?
We’ve got great thriftspiration, including seasonal style ideas, different ways to wear the same item, and home decor trends.
Ready to donate?
Find your local Thrift Store and don’t forget to drop off a donation to get a coupon for 20% off your next purchase.