Thrifting 101: 7 Tips on Thrifting Successfully

So, thrifting has been an ongoing obsession of mine since middle school. The feeling you get when you find a true gem is amazing, especially if you've gone through every rack in the store. I will say that about 70% off my closet is from thrift stores and some of my favorites items were thrifted.

My favorite thrift store is Value Village. Value Village never seems to let me down, and the prices are lower than Goodwill prices. I've found some cute and timeless pieces from Value Village and would highly recommend taking a trip to the nearest location.

Now that I've shouted them out successfully, here are 7 tips I have picked up along these many years of thrifting.

1. BRING YOUR PATIENCE

Second-hand shops are organized by the item type (i.e., shirts, blouses, jeans, etc.) and the color and looking into a sea of red long-sleeve tops can intimidating. But patience is key to a successful thrift trip. Things may be damaged, not the right size you need, faded, etc. but breathe and roll with the punches.

2. BE OPEN MINDED

Most people are turned off by thrift stores because of the second-hand clothing. But the way I see it is, I am taking something old and reinventing it. I am not passing up a gem just because someone wore it five years ago. And tbh, most clothes still have the tags on them so...

3. START IN THE MEN'S SECTION

Let's face it men get all the good stuff, and the men's section is full of gems just waiting to be snatched. I usually start with men's t-shirts because they have to coolest graphics. Now, you will have to rake through dozens of construction, organization and vacation tees but honestly, those have the best designs. (sn: men's tees at Value Village are usually $1.69, you're welcome)

The men's outerwear sections is also a good place to start. Around this time of the year, you'll find plenty of trench coats and leather jackets so definitely check out that section if you need outerwear. Unfortunately, the jackets never fit me, so I have to make my way to the boy's section...

(sn: the men's section is also full of name brands like Nike and Adidas)

4. DON'T FORGET ACCESSORIES

From hats to sunglasses, the accessories in the thrift store are one-of-a-kind. My personal favorites are the dad caps and watches which sometimes work surprisingly. You can find quirky pieces which can elevate and transform a fit.

5. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SALES

Most thrift stores I have visited will have 50 % off of certain colored tags which makes me want to buy more. And of course, Value Village comes in clutch with their 50% off everything on the last Wednesday of the month. You can leave with three full bags and only spend $100; you can't beat that!

6. BE CREATIVE

Being able to see the bigger picture is important when your browsing through racks and racks of clothing. You may pick up something that is pretty basic that you could transform into something unique whether it be through styling or DIY. The spirit of DIY is very strong in thrift stores, and I'd rather cut up something I paid $5 for than something I bought from the mall. I've seen people take decades-old dresses and transform them into beautiful, modern pieces.

7. HAVE FUN

Thrifting is fun and even better when you take your friends with you. There are plenty of thrifting challenges on YouTube that you and your friends can do. You can create outfits for each other or stick to a $20 budget. Just have fun and enjoy discounted clothing.

Always,

L