How Celebrity Thrift Fashion Is Shaping Gen Z Style in 2025

Photo by Brian Lawson on Unsplash

Introduction: Celebrity Thrift Fashion and Gen Z’s Style Revolution

The fashion landscape of 2025 is experiencing a profound transformation as celebrities champion thrifted and vintage looks, influencing a new generation of style-conscious shoppers. Gen Z, with its strong values around sustainability, individuality, and affordability, is at the forefront of this movement. Key celebrity endorsements of thrift fashion have not only popularized vintage aesthetics but have also made secondhand shopping a mainstream choice. This article explores the rise of celebrity-driven thrift fashion, its impact on Gen Z, and offers actionable guidance for embracing these trends in your own wardrobe.

The Rise of Celebrity Thrift Fashion

Thrift fashion-encompassing secondhand, vintage, and upcycled clothing-has received a major boost from celebrities re-wearing iconic pieces and spotlighting sustainable choices. In 2025, stars like Kylie Jenner, Dua Lipa, and Bella Hadid have embraced
90s twinning
, reviving archive looks and blending nostalgia with modern sensibility [1] . This trend is visible on social media, in street style photos, and during major fashion weeks, where vintage Jean Paul Gaultier tops and Diesel jeans have become emblematic of the new cool.

Gen Z’s response has been enthusiastic, as these celebrity choices validate secondhand shopping and inspire creativity. By showcasing re-worn garments and upcycled finds, celebrities are normalizing the idea that style does not have to come fresh off the rack. Instead, it can be discovered in thrift stores, online resale platforms, and flea markets.

Why Gen Z Loves Celebrity Thrift Fashion

Gen Z’s affinity for thrift fashion stems from several key motivators:

Sustainability: Buying secondhand reduces textile waste and environmental impact, aligning with Gen Z’s eco-conscious values.
Affordability: Thrifted and vintage clothing often costs less than new designer pieces, making high fashion accessible [4] .
Individuality: Vintage and thrift finds allow for unique, personalized style that stands out from mass-produced trends.
Nostalgia: The revival of 80s and 90s fashion appeals to a sense of retro cool, with celebrities leading the charge [1] .

These motivators drive Gen Z to seek out thrift stores, online marketplaces like Depop and Poshmark, and local vintage shops for their fashion needs.

Celebrity Influence: Key Trends and Real-World Examples

Celebrity endorsements have a tangible impact on which thrift trends gain traction. In 2025, several specific looks have become particularly influential:

90s Twinning: Kylie Jenner in vintage mesh tops, Dua Lipa in throwback tank dresses, Bella Hadid in head-to-toe Diesel-these looks are inspiring fans to hunt for similar pieces [1] .
Affordable Street Style: Celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Jennifer Lawrence have been spotted wearing thrifted or vintage-inspired pieces that are readily available from mainstream retailers such as Free People and J.Crew, showing that the look can be achieved at any budget [4] .
Vintage Wash Denim & Pleated Skirts: Stars like Alexa Chung and Charli XCX are mixing pleated skirts with band tees and biker boots, while vintage-wash denim is a staple in celebrity wardrobes [3] .
Cropped Trousers & Y2K Revival: Bella Hadid and Daisy Edgar-Jones model capri pants and other Y2K-inspired silhouettes, further normalizing thrifted looks [2] .

These examples demonstrate that celebrity thrift fashion is not limited to runway looks; it is accessible and actionable for everyday wear.

How to Access Celebrity-Inspired Thrift Fashion

If you want to recreate celebrity thrift looks or simply start shopping more sustainably, consider these step-by-step strategies:

Identify Your Inspiration: Follow fashion news outlets, celebrity Instagram accounts, and style blogs to see the latest thrifted looks. Pay attention to how celebrities mix vintage pieces with modern elements.
Set a Budget: Thrifting can be affordable, but it’s easy to overspend without a plan. Decide how much you want to spend per item or trip.
Search Locally and Online: Visit local thrift shops, vintage boutiques, and flea markets. For online options, search for platforms like Depop, Poshmark, or eBay, using keywords like “vintage Jean Paul Gaultier mesh top” or “Y2K capri pants”.
Authenticate High-Value Finds: For designer pieces or rare items, research authentication guides or ask shop owners about provenance. Many platforms offer in-house authentication for select items.
Mix and Match: Combine thrifted items with contemporary basics to achieve the celebrity look. Layering vintage skirts with modern tees or pairing capris with trendy sneakers can bring the style to life.
Share and Connect: Join online communities or local groups focused on thrift fashion. Sharing finds and styling tips can inspire others and help you stay ahead of emerging trends.

Remember, the goal is not to copy looks exactly but to channel the creative energy and sustainability ethos that celebrities are modeling.

Challenges and Solutions in Thrift Fashion

While thrift fashion offers many benefits, shoppers may encounter several challenges:

Limited Sizes and Selection: Thrift stores may not have every size or style. Solution: Shop at multiple locations, try online platforms with wider inventory, or learn basic tailoring to adjust fit.
Time-Intensive Search: Finding the perfect piece takes patience. Solution: Set aside dedicated shopping days, make a list of desired items, and use search filters online.
Authenticity Concerns: Designer vintage can be difficult to authenticate. Solution: Use reputable shops and platforms, request authentication, or consult online guides.
Peer Influence and Trend Cycles: Because celebrity thrift trends change quickly, it’s easy to chase fleeting styles. Solution: Focus on building a timeless wardrobe with pieces that reflect your personal taste and values.

With these strategies, Gen Z shoppers can navigate the thrift fashion world confidently.

Alternative Approaches to Thrift Fashion

Thrift fashion isn’t limited to physical stores. Here are alternatives for those seeking more options:

Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Depop and Poshmark offer curated collections and allow users to follow sellers who specialize in celebrity-inspired vintage. Use specific search terms to find the desired look.
Clothing Swaps: Organize or attend local clothing swaps, which provide a sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe and connect with fellow fashion enthusiasts.
Upcycling: Transform older garments into trendy styles by learning basic sewing or customization. Online tutorials and upcycling communities can provide inspiration and guidance.
Renting Vintage: Some services allow you to rent high-value vintage or designer pieces for special occasions, offering access to celebrity looks without a long-term commitment.

Exploring these alternatives can help broaden your access to thrift fashion and keep your style fresh.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Celebrity thrift fashion is more than a passing fad-it represents a shift in how Gen Z approaches style, consumption, and self-expression. By embracing thrifted and vintage clothing, inspired by star-powered trends, Gen Z is shaping a more sustainable and creative future for fashion. To get started, research your favorite celebrity looks, identify sources for thrifted finds, and experiment with mixing old and new pieces. Whether you shop in person or online, focus on authenticity, creativity, and sustainability.

If you’re new to thrift shopping, consider joining local fashion groups or following online communities dedicated to secondhand style. For further resources and guidance, you may search for sustainable fashion organizations or visit reputable fashion news outlets for the latest trends and tips.