Did your nose wrinkle when reading the word “thrift store?” If so, don’t drop off just yet!
Outfit details linked here
The idea of shopping at thrift stores isn’t always a positive one. Some of us are haunted by the odd smells and trends that NEVER should have EVER been designed, let alone sold. Maybe you were dragged into thrift stores on Saturday afternoons with mom or grandma as a child and bored you to death. Maybe you hate the idea of wearing second hand clothing. Whatever your reason may be, I am here to tell you that buying second hand and thrift shopping can actually work in your favor - and even be fun!
If you like bargain buys, designer pieces, fixer uppers and new clothes, thrifting may be for you! I’ve been a thrifter for many years and have found numerous designer brands, staple pieces, once-a-wears and accessories! I love receiving compliments on outfits or pieces that I purchased at a thrift store because most people are genuinely shocked to hear it. Sometimes it’s hard to tell if an outfit has been thrifted because – believe it or not – there are always hidden treasures in the vast racks of forgotten clothes.
What’s the appeal of shopping at thrift stores? Is it really worth saving the money? How can you find pieces worth buying? Here's my guide to thrift shopping and how to do it successfully.
1. Find the Right Thrift Store
You won't strike gold at every thrift store every time, but neither will a visit to a regular store or boutique. You can however target which thrift shops to visit though depending on what pieces you want.
Try thrift stores in higher income areas and neighborhoods. When you think about where individuals that may be middle-to-upper class donate their clothes, it's likely to be thrift stores near their homes. That's where you have a chance of finding more designer pieces, higher end items and lightly worn fashionable pieces. Of course this isn't a guarantee, but the chances of finding nicer items is significantly higher.
Thrifted tweed houndstooth J. Crew skirt for $5 | Similar one linked here
2. Prepare Yourself to Look
The second factor to take into consideration is being ready to look. There certainly is an art to thrifting that takes practice if you don't thrift avidly, and perhaps with the assistance of an experienced thrifter or a friend. You never want to go through every single rack and article of clothing; you will lose your enthusiasm rapidly. Have a premeditated idea of what you might want to purchase, which leads us to the next point...
3. Know What to Look for
The first thing to consider is what pieces you'd like to find. If you feel overwhelmed or uninspired when you walk into a large store, or thrift shop, then having a goal prior to going will help drastically. There are usually go-to pieces hidden among the overwhelming amount of unwanted clothing. Surprisingly, lots of designer clothes too!
Here is a list of the pieces I always keep an eye out for when visiting a thrift store:
Belts
Coats and blazers
Cardigans and sweaters
Skirts
Nice blouses
Cashmere Ralph Lauren cardigan for $6 | similar one linked here
4. A Keen Eye Before You Buy
Be cautious and smart when thrifting. The most important thing to be on the look out for are stains! I’ve gotten so excited about a cute top or skirt I found in my size and forgot to check for stains, only to come home and notice that it’s not something that can easily be treated.
Stains, snags or holes can be easily unseen and often overlooked when displayed on the racks. Be sure to scrutinize the entirety of the piece from front to back.
I was absolutely elated to come across this cashmere Ralph Lauren cardigan that only cost me $6, so I immediately purchased it without giving it a good once over - only to discover 2 holes in it later. Thankfully I could stitch them up without looking noticeably mended, but still - exercise caution
5. Look for Potential
Something entertaining about thrifting is the vast amount of DIY projects and fixer uppers available to you at a low cost.
For example, I purchased this Tommy Hilfiger wool coat at my local Goodwill and saw potential beyond the original horrendous buttons and the bow on the back that was falling off. With new pearly buttons from Amazon and a sewing kit, this Tommy Hilfiger coat went from dated to chic with a few new buttons and a vision. I wear it all the time now and receive many compliments - and conjunctively it only cost me $32!
Black Tommy Hilfiger Wool coat with new pearl buttons | similar one linked here
6. Don’t Bash Before You Try!
A question to ask yourself is, “What is deterring me from giving thrifting a try?” Whether it intimidates or appalls you, thrifting is resourceful way of dressing smart on a budget—which every bargain buyer needs.
Give thrifting a try and make a day of it; take a friend along for a second opinion and moral support. The main message to take with you to the thrift store is common sense. Search for what you need, like and can afford—which conveniently is very cheap. Step out of your comfort zone and try a fun and creative method of shopping!
H&M tunic button up for $5 | similar one linked here