We may be massive fans of up-and-coming indie designers and fashion houses, but that doesn't mean we don't spend our weekends scouring local thrift stores for finds that are as cool as they are cheap. But after countless hours of raking through racks, one thing always becomes clear: No matter what surplus or secondhand store you choose, you always end up finding variations of the same few items. Unfortunately, commonality does not equal wearability—but with a few styling tips and tricks, you can make even the most plain or garish piece look fresh.
Click through the gallery to see how to style five ($5) thrifted garments.
model: marykate // one.1 models
photographer: guillaume roemaet