If you are having trouble finding vintage pieces that go with your aesthetic, then try to also look at the vintage clothing from a DIY perspective. Just because a vintage dress or shirt is oversized or shapeless, does not mean you can’t get creative and pair the item with a modern belt, or trim the item to fit your size and aesthetic. [2] X Research source Sometimes adding or swapping out drab buttons on a blouse or dress can liven up the item and modernize it. [3] X Research source
New clothes that are vintage-inspired will also often be available in more sizes, and will be more affordable than genuine vintage clothing.
Layer simple white vintage blouses with colorful modern cardigans, or take that bold vintage print and tone it down with a solid-colored jacket. [5] X Research source
Pair high-waist shorts or pants with a simple white collared blouse to create an effortless day-look. [7] X Research source
Swing skirts can easily be paired with a printed T-shirt, and shirt-waist dresses look great when layered with a modern cardigan or leather jacket. [9] X Research source
Colorful heels with a rounded toe can easily modernize a vintage dress or skirt. Pair it with accessories that match the heels to further tie together the look. [11] X Research source Strap on some sandals with your high-waist shorts and a printed T-shirt for a great summertime look. [12] X Research source
Edgy geometric necklaces, earrings, or bracelets will add modern touches to any vintage outfit. [14] X Research source
So if you want to wear that faux-leopard coat that has been hanging in your closet, then pair it with simple black clothes and accessories to help balance the outfit. [16] X Research source Adding denim to any bold vintage item will automatically ground the outfit and make it look contemporary. So if you stumble across a vintage colorful blouse or sweater, and you don’t know what modern piece to pair it with, then just add a denim skirt, a pair of jeans, or a denim jacket to tone down the vintage piece. [17] X Research source
So instead of focusing your efforts on re-creating a swing-look from the 1940s or 1950s, pair that high waist swing skirt with a rocking T-shirt or leather jacket from the 1970s. [19] X Research source
Try pairing that shirt-waist dress with popping colored heels or leather sandals, and flouncy hat. [21] X Research source
Take your plain pencil skirt, and pair it with a colorful floral 1980s blouse to create a statement office look. [23] X Research source If you want to wear that fancy white Edwardian blouse, then pair it with a simple zip-up sweatshirt and jeans, or high waist shorts and modern patterned tights. This will help downplay the blouse and still maintain its vintage appeal. [24] X Research source
Maybe think about layering that over-sized vintage sweater with a collared-blouse. Add a pair of fitted dark wash jeans or skirt, and you now have a modern vintage daytime look. [26] X Research source
Vintage formal attire can often include loud or multicolored prints, so try pairing those pieces with modern casual pieces to help tone the outfit down. [28] X Research source
Try picking a color that is central to a vintage piece you are wearing, and use modern accessories to bring out that color. This will help tie in the vintage with the modern, and make the overall outfit look more cohesive. [30] X Research source If your outfit already has a lot of color in it, then contemporize the look with black accessories. [31] X Research source
