Last winter I kept wishing I had a nice red sweater to wear – it would have coordinated with so many outfits. This summer I picked one up at an online thrift store. I chose it because it was cotton, hip length, and had such classic styling. The all-over cabling, high waist and cuff ribbing, and general shape were 1940s style to my eyes.

There was only one problem – the giant plastic faux-shell buttons!

The buttons were way too modern. So I went on a hunt through my button stash and found these vintage jacket buttons I'd picked up at an antique store ages ago. Just the right size and just exactly enough!

Swapping buttons is perhaps the easiest refashion ever. Yet it really does make a big difference, despite how easy and basic it is.

And within a half hour, with very little expense and effort, I have a much more period correct sweater! 

(It goes really well with my plaid 1940s skirt!)

It's super thick and warm, which is ok by me since mountain winters in a house with one wood stove for heat can make for chilly days during the coldest times.

I like it a lot better now and am much more likely to wear it. A classic sweater in cherry red is extremely wearable, and a staple in a vintage wardrobe. Plus I get to air these fabulous vintage buttons and do a bit of stash-busting at the same time!

Funny that something as simple as buttons can make such a big difference. And it's so little effort – I just had to take the time to sit down and do it. Makes me wonder how many other such modern-made pieces in my wardrobe could be improved!

What do you think? Does it look accurate?