Can You Build a Summer Outfit for £40?
Posted by jonathan kemp on
There’s a common mis-conception that building an outfit from scratch costs a lot of money.
We wanted to see how far £40 could actually go when thrifting online, not just for one item, but for a full summer fit.
Turns out, further than you’d think.
Instead of chasing full outfits or trend-led pieces, we focused on wardrobe staples, the kind of pieces you'll wear on repeat all summer, styled differently every time.
Here’s what made the cut:
- A vintage Carhartt tee - £6.59
- Classic Lee carpenter denim shorts - £9.89
- A lightweight adidas track jacket for cooler evenings - £11.39
- Retro racer sunglasses - £4.99
- A vintage adidas cap to finish it off - £6.49
Total: £39.35
Not bad for a complete summer rotation.
What makes thrifting different is the way it changes how you shop. You stop looking for “perfect outfits” and start picking up versatile pieces with personality, things you can throw together in loads of different ways.
A good vintage tee with denim shorts.
A lightweight jacket over basically anything.
Accessories that make simple outfits feel intentional.
That’s how a capsule wardrobe actually starts.
And honestly, that’s the best part about second-hand shopping. You’re not dressing like everyone else, you’re building a wardrobe that feels personal without spending loads to do it.
Better quality, better prices, and way more interesting than fast fashion.
Can you build a summer outfit for under £40?
