Nostalgia plays a huge part in vintage and pre-loved edits. There are continuous nods to decades past showing up left, right and center on our social media and in the go-to fashion journals. You all know what I'm talking about...The quirky, ironic style of dressing that combines anything from the far-gone 20's to the latest 90s, with a mix of the present.
But here's where my take on secondhand fashion has always been a little bit different. I never wanted it to look secondhand. I wanted it to look expensive, chic and more importantly, glamourous. Because if money wasn't an option that would be my forever style. If you are reading this thinking, yes, that's exactly the type of closet you are wanting to curate, then this article is for you my friend.
let's start with the generic definition of what it means to be glamourous:
Glamorous: Glamour is the impression of attraction or fascination that a particularly luxurious or elegant appearance creates, an impression which intensifies reality.
Here's a version of what secondhand glam means to me; a vintage sequinned hand-me-down top and some well-fitted jeans. The overall feeling; effortlessly eye-catching. Simple, yet effective. But that's just me, and the beauty about being glam, is that that it can be whatever you want it to be. But when styling secondhand there are a few tricks you can try out to speed up your curations and make them look like you just pulled your outfit right out of a luxury boutique.
Ready to create your version of secondhand glam?
Read on...
Here's my top tricks when it comes to making secondhand, glam!
Build Your Fashion Compass
Fashion informs society. It helps us reflect who we are, what we believe and what we want to express. When it comes to creating glamorous looks, you have to ask yourself what does that mean to you? Does it mean sultry, bold, confident, unapologetic or even polished? What fabrics, cuts and silhouettes help you feel like this? When you have your answers, you then need to ask yourself, how can I intensify this feeling in a way that makes me feel confident. My go-to is always jeans, heels and a silky/satin or sequinned top. No matter what is going on in my life I know I will feel glam, confident and can UP the look with accessories, layers and a bold lip.
Questions to ask:
- Can I add a bold statement necklace to this outfit?
- Can I pair some strappy heels with a well tailored suit to give me a little edge?
- Can I pull a chunky knit off the shoulder a little to help ooze the sultry side to what I want to say.
Pick A Narrative
Don't try to say too much all at once. This is when you go from glam to funky/ cool/ ironic or just a little confused. When shopping secondhand that's why it's always good to go for classics that are made to last.
- A good pair of trousers
- A timeless slip
- A well-cut blaser or even a satin skirt.
Then, you add your headline numbers:
- That funky cardigan
- Out-there boots
- One- of a kind dress that will make heads turn.
Just remember to always add the classic chapters around it to keep the focus. If you have two many narratives your outfit will just get lost.
Be Inspired
Let stye icons, social media and strangers in the street inspire you. What colours, shapes and outfits scream glamour to you? take note of what they are wearing, how they are pairing it and ask yourself- how have they achieved glam status? What makes them glamorous to you? then take all that info and start jotting down notes on things to look out for on your next secondhand adventure.
I absolutely love Victoria Beckham and strongly believe that everything she wears looks super glam. Even her sportswear! And I've asked myself time and time again, what makes her look glam? It's the simplicity of her edits with a strike of surprising delight. Combined with of course, quality.
A fluorescent green top, or a low cut back, or even an oversized jumper. She gives you a wink somewhere with her outfit. So I take that, and run with it when styling my own secondhand looks, I choose quality, statement pieces and elements of delight that I can pull from one outfit to the next.
Never Compromise
If it doesn't make you feel 100% don't buy it, swap it or style it. Glamour is about giving yourself the best of the best. Even when it's secondhand. Take your time, be patient and if it's not everything you desire, move on. There are plenty of clothes on the planet!
