A Girl Transforms Thrifted Clothes into Fashion Pieces, Proving You Don't Need to Spend a Fortune to Be Trendy

Thrifting isn’t just a hobby — it’s an art! TikTok creator Brooklyn Karasack is a perfect example, with her viral thrift flip videos. One clip alone has 1.5 million views, showing her amazing transformations of Goodwill finds into trendy clothes and DIY fashion masterpieces.

Thrifting has something for everyone, whether you’re into sustainability or just love a good deal, second-hand shopping is full of surprises. So, grab a friend, dive into the racks, and get inspired to flip your own thrifted treasures — just like Brooklyn!

How one girl turned thrift store clothes into trendsetting outfits

If you’ve ever set foot in a thrift store, you know it’s a whole experience — like going on a treasure hunt where you never know what gems you’ll dig up. Serious thrifters treat thrift store fashion like a serious sport, dedicating hours to combing through racks in hopes of scoring a hidden prize. And it’s not just about quantity. These folks have their eyes peeled for unique pieces that make their wardrobe stand out. After all, a good thrift store find is a trophy in the world of thrift store fashion.

But let’s talk about the next-level thrifters: the ones who transform their finds into DIY fashion masterpieces. These creative souls don’t just settle for whatever the racks have to offer; they turn their upcycled clothing into wearable art. Take Brooke Karasack, for instance. She’s like the Picasso of DIY fashion, taking second-hand duds and revamping them into show-stopping outfits. If you thought simply shopping at a thrift store was impressive, wait until you see the magic she works with her needle and thread.

Why thrift store fashion is trending among Gen Z?

The first reason is sustainability! People are realizing that vintage fashion and upcycled clothing are perfect ways to reduce waste. Fast fashion’s impact on the planet has a lot of young people rethinking their buying habits, and shopping at a thrift store is an eco-friendly alternative. Why buy something new when you can get a stylish, well-made piece that has a history—and won’t end up as landfill fodder?

Cost is another major factor. Hunting for trendy clothes on a budget is a thrill in itself. Imagine snagging trendy clothes for just a fraction of what they’d cost brand new. You could fill your closet with designer-quality pieces for the price of a few coffees. All it takes is time, patience, and a willingness to dig. With some dedication, you can build a wardrobe full of statement pieces and vintage fashion finds that will make your friends ask, “Where did you get that?!”

The journey of her viral fashion transformation

The fun doesn’t stop there. Influencers like Karasack inspire fans to turn thrift store fashion into their kind of DIY fashion adventure. They share videos showing off their latest upcycled clothing creations or the best vintage fashion finds from a recent thrift haul. And, let’s be real, who doesn’t want to be the person rocking trendy clothes that nobody else has? It’s a thrill that keeps people coming back for more.

Let’s not forget the thrill of discovering that perfect piece! Thrifting can be a bit of a workout, requiring focus and determination, but the excitement of finding a hidden gem is worth every effort. Whether it’s a unique vintage fashion coat or trendy clothes that make you feel amazing, the reward is unmatched. Plus, every time you wear it, you’ll have a great story about your thrift store treasure hunt.

Ready to dive into thrifting? Start by making a list before visiting your first thrift store. Going in without a plan can feel overwhelming, so identify what you’re searching for — whether it’s trendy clothes for a night out or vintage fashion for that retro vibe. Once inside, know your size and style to make scanning the racks more efficient. If you’re exploring DIY fashion, choose pieces with the potential for transformation into upcycled clothing you’ll love to wear.

Finally, always check the quality before making a purchase. Ensure your thrift store fashion finds are in good condition—free from irreparable stains or major wear and tear. Take a moment to feel the fabric, assess its durability, and prioritize natural materials like cotton or wool for timeless appeal.

Most importantly, enjoy the process! Bring along a friend, turn it into an adventure, and embrace the thrill of the hunt. You might leave with trendy clothes, a vintage fashion gem, or even inspiration for your next upcycled clothing creation. Happy thrifting, savvy shoppers!

How do you clean clothes from a thrift store?

Cleaning thrift store clothes is like giving them a fresh start—and who doesn’t enjoy a little wardrobe refresh?

• Begin by checking the care tags for specific washing instructions (because no one wants to ruin their vintage treasure).
• For most items, a warm water wash with a quality detergent in the machine will handle any lingering germs.
• For delicate fabrics or upcycled clothing with intricate details, stick to hand washing or a gentle machine cycle.
• If stubborn odors persist, try adding a splash of vinegar or a sprinkle of baking soda to the wash.

For those extra-special trendy pieces that aren’t machine-friendly, a visit to the dry cleaner is the way to go.

Once cleaned, your thrifted finds will be fresh, fabulous, and ready to wear!

How do you turn old clothes into new styles?

Transforming old clothes into fresh, trendy styles is all about unleashing your creativity and having fun!

Start by assessing your wardrobe and envisioning the potential — an oversized shirt could be revamped into a stylish crop top, or a pair of old jeans might make the perfect cut-off shorts. With a pair of scissors and a sewing kit in hand, let your imagination guide you. Enhance basic pieces with patches, embroidery, or unique buttons, or use fabric dye to create a bold new look.

Even small adjustments, like reshaping a neckline or distressing denim, can bring a dramatic change. The secret is to experiment and turn every item into something that truly reflects your personality!

How do I find trendy pieces in thrift stores?

• Channel Your Inner Style Detective. Strut in like you’re on a secret fashion mission. Grab a coffee (because you’re gonna need energy), take a deep breath, and prepare to hunt for gems. Remember, this isn’t just shopping; it’s an adventure. Sherlock Holmes who? More like Sher-thrift Holmes!
• Go Big or Go Home. Head to the sections that aren’t your typical size or gender. Oversized men’s jackets? Trendy. Cute baby tees? A must. Fashion rules are for the boring. You’re here to bend those rules, flip them over, and make them yours.
• Feel the Fabrics. Rub those clothes like you’re a fashion clairvoyant. Is that satin or the elusive vintage silk? Your hands know the good stuff. Trust them! If it feels high-quality, it’s probably worth a try—even if you’re not sure it’ll fit. Who knew you’d end up being a fabric whisperer?
• Trendy Colors and Patterns. Check for colors and patterns that scream THIS YEAR, BABY. Animal print, bold color-blocking, or funky retro florals are the thrift gold you’re hunting. But beware: one second, it’s trendy; the next, it’s grandma’s couch, so choose wisely!
• Check Tags for Clues. You spot a label that’s not Forever 21 or fast-fashion-no-name? Jackpot! High-quality brands and vintage labels are often hiding in plain sight. Check tags for hints, like “Made in Italy” or “Dry Clean Only” (because only fancy stuff doesn’t tolerate a washing machine).

• Go With an Open Mind and Big Dreams. You might go in thinking, “I want a cute denim jacket” and leave with a sparkly dress that makes you look like a disco queen. Let the thrift gods decide. Keep an open mind, or risk missing out on something weirdly spectacular.
• Try Things On and Give ’Em a Dance Test. That’s right—do a little shimmy in the mirror. If that dress isn’t making you feel like a 10, put it back. Life is too short to own clothes that don’t make you wanna boogie. And sometimes, those funky pieces look WAY better on than on the rack.
• Don’t Forget the Accessories. Belts, bags, scarves, and hats can turn “meh” into “omg yesss.” Plus, thrift stores often have hidden treasures in the accessories section. Score a vintage leather bag or a pair of 90s sunglasses, and you’re a style icon.
• Go Thrifting with Friends or a Hype Squad. Bring a friend who hypes you up, not one who says, “Hmm, I don’t know about that.” You need support on this treasure hunt, not a style critic! Or, go solo and hype yourself up because self-love is the trendiest thing of all.
• Remember: Not Every Day Is a Winning Day. Sometimes, you leave with nothing but a story about a truly hideous sequined top you almost bought ironically. That’s okay! The fashion gods will bless you next time.

A size 14 woman recreates celebrity looks to prove you don’t need to be a size zero to be stylish.