Putting together a second-hand men's outfit: this is how you build a strong combination

Putting together a second-hand men's outfit becomes easier when you don't try to combine five striking finds at the same time. Start with one piece of clothing that fits well and build around it logically. Fit comes first, then color, texture and accessories.

Step 1: determine what you need the outfit for

An outfit for work, dinner or a Saturday afternoon requires something different. Therefore, first determine the formality.

• Casual: jeans, polo, shirt, knitwear or leather jacket.
• Smart casual: trousers or neat jeans with a shirt, waistcoat or jacket.
• Dressed: suit, shirt, dress shoes and possibly a tie.

Step 2: Choose one main garment

For example, start with a jacket, vintage shirt, leather jacket or special trousers. That's the piece that gives character.

Is the main garment busy in color or pattern? Keep the rest calmer. If it is plain, you have more room for print or texture.

Step 3: Check the fit first

A beautiful combination only works if the basis is right. At one jacket start at the shoulders; with trousers at the waist, crotch and seat; with a shirt at shoulders and chest.

The size label is second hand only an indication. Brands and periods vary.

Step 4: choose a quiet base

Dark blue, gray, brown, cream, white and denim are useful connecting colors. They make a vintage print, check or striking waistcoat stand out better.

You don't have to match everything exactly. One color that comes back is often enough.

Step 5: Add a second layer

A waistcoat, spencer, sweater or jacket adds depth. Make sure that the layers are not too thick and that the outer layer still fits comfortably.

One waistcoat classic works over a shirt; a spencer gives a softer preppy look.

Step 6: combine patterns consciously

Two patterns can work well together when the scale differs. A fine line under a large diamond works easier than two patterns of almost the same size.

When in doubt, leave one part plain. Also read combine printed shirts.

Step 7: Look at the proportions of the entire outfit

A long vintage jacket, high trousers or wide tie changes the silhouette. Don't try to automatically force older clothing into a modern slim-fit ratio.

A wider top can actually work better with straight trousers than with a very narrow leg.

Step 8: Shoes set the formality

Sneakers loosen up a combination; loafers, derbies and other smart leather shoes make him dressier.

Choose shoes that match the weight of the pants. Heavy vintage trousers can look strange above an extremely light sports shoe.

Step 9: Accessories last

One tie, belt or other accessory should support the outfit, not save it. Only add something when the basis is already correct.

With a busy shirt, a quiet tie is often enough. With a plain combination, a vintage paisley or wider tie can add character.

Example 1: casual second-hand outfit

Straight jeans + Oxford shirt + leather jacket + quiet sneakers. Four simple parts, where the jacket gives the character.

Example 2: smart casual

Gray trousers + light blue shirt + brown tweed jacket + loafers. Add a vintage tie for a more formal look.

Example 3: more vintage

70s print shirt + plain trousers + quiet waistcoat. This way the shirt takes center stage without the entire outfit becoming a costume.

Also read combine vintage men's clothing.

When does an outfit not work?

• When several pieces require attention at the same time.
• When colors are not connected anywhere.
• If the fit of one main part is clearly wrong.
• When each layer has a different formality.
• If you only wear a special item because the brand is known.

A complete second-hand outfit at EcoGents

At EcoGents you can shirts, jackets, waistcoats, trousers, suits and ties can be combined directly next to each other. Everything in the store is custom-made, so you can quickly see which proportions and colors work together.

For a specific occasion you can also use our guide dress codes for men use.