Thrifting 101
Hey Fam!
Fall is right around the corner, which means it’s time to shop! Does anyone else use season changes as an excuse to shop, or is that just me? I've been sticking to a strict budget due to my recent move, so I haven’t been doing much shopping, but I’m definitely starting to feel the desire to shop. Luckily, the thrift store is a great option to satisfy my needs without breaking the bank.
If you’re interested in thrifting, but haven’t dipped your toes in it yet, check out these key tips on navigating thrift stores.
- Riss <3
1. VISIT MULTIPLE THRIFT STORES AND THRIFT OFTEN
Not all thrift stores are created equally. Some may sell designer clothes, while others may sell brandless items. Some may sell just clothing, while others may sell furniture and other household items. Don’t get discouraged if you visit a thrift store and it doesn’t have what you’re looking for. Check out multiple, and you just may find a few things that catch your eye.
Thrift stores are also constantly restocking their inventory. A true thrifter doesn’t give up after the first visit. If you don’t find something you like on Thursday, try again the following week. Monday’s and Tuesday’s are actually the best days to shop at thrift stores, as new clothes from the following week are usually processed by then. If your local thrift store doesn’t seem to follow that cadence, check in with an employee for more information on when they restock
2. BE OPEN-MINDED
Thrifting is all about creativity and putting together outfits that you may not find in a regular clothing store. Don’t go into a thrift store looking for a plain t-shirt. Try out the colorful blouses, windbreakers, and vintage denim. An oversized denim jacket may not appear that stunning on a clothing rack, but it can look really dope and unique once you try it on.
The main thing I love about thrift stores is that you likely won’t run into someone wearing the same pieces. They also provide you with a great opportunity to experiment with your style without hurting your pockets.
3. THE FITTING ROOM IS YOUR FRIEND
Most thrift stores don’t accept cash/credit returns, so ensure an item fits before purchasing it. You can get a better idea of the fit and quality of an item by trying it on. Nothing would suck more than buying a dope windbreaker that ends up not fitting well.
On the flip side, don’t completely overlook an item if the fit is slightly off. For example, if you really like a pair of jeans, but you find them to be a little too long after trying them on, just get them hemmed! A few extra dollars spent on tailoring a quality pair of $5 thrifted jeans is still less than purchasing a brand new pair of $50 jeans.
4. EXAMINE THE CLOTHING - PASS ON STAINED ITEMS
Remember that thrift stores sell used items. Most of the items you find won’t be in tip-top shape. There are some defects you can overlook, and there are some that you cannot. For example, you may be able to fix a missing button, but you should pass on items that contain stains. Stains on thrift store clothing are likely old, and may never come out. If it’s a small stain that you’re willing to work with, then go for it! If it’s a bigger stain that you’re hoping you can scrub out, pass on it. The item has more than likely already been washed multiple times. Stained thrift store clothes are not worth the money or hassle that would involve attempting to remove the stain.
5. Do: Buy furniture and clothing.
Furniture and clothing are probably the best things you can buy at a thrift store. You’ll save the most money with these items. When it comes to furniture/household items, make sure you’re testing them to ensure that they’re stable and in good condition. You don’t wanna buy a chair, and have it break on you when you bring it home. Make sure everything is all squared away before leaving the store.
6. don’t: buy UNDERGARMENTS, body suits, swim suits, Etc.
I don’t think I need to go super in-depth with this tip, but don’t buy intimate items at the thrift store. I always find it odd when I see things such as swimsuits being sold in thrift stores. You have no way of ensuring that these items are hygienic, and to what capacity someone has worn these items. Just stay clear of these items. That’s the safest way to go. They’re better bought brand new.
7. SHOP DURING SEASON CHANGES
Shopping during season changes is the best time to shop at thrift stores. This is the time when people are looking to get rid of items from the previous season to open up room in their closet for the upcoming season. Let their loss be your gain. I like to look for items that can be worn throughout multiple seasons. If I’m really feeling an item that can only be worn during a previous season, I just save it until that season rolls around again and I can wear it.
8. LOOK OUT FOR SALES/coupons
Most thrift stores do have sale days and/or provide their customers with coupons, so pay attention to signs or ask an employee. Keep your eyes peeled when holidays roll around, because you may come across a great sale.
If you’re looking for a deal outside of sales, coupons, etc., examine the hell out of your items and ask for deeper discounts if you find any minor defects.
9. DON’T BE AFRAID TO LEAVE EMPTY-HANDED
Don’t feel forced to purchase an item just because you’ve entered a thrift store. It’s okay to leave empty-handed if you don’t see something you like. There are tons of different thrift stores, and they all typically re-stock on a weekly basis. Don’t get discouraged and decide to never return to a thrift store if you don’t find anything you like. Just visit another one or re-visit on another day.
10. DONATE YOUR ITEMS
Give back to your local thrift store by donating or selling pieces of clothing that you no longer wear. If you do donate, make sure you save your receipt. Thrift store donations can be written off on your taxes.