So what’s with the stigma against second hand clothing stores? We’ve always wondered why such shame is associated with used items and clothing. We began to gauge the reactions from our friends:
“You don’t know who could have worn that last! That’s gross.”
“It’s old and used, why don’t you buy new?”
“Only poor people shop there.”
“Everything is ugly there, I never find anything.”
We, however, dismiss these judgemental comments whole-heartedly because while they’re paying $75 for a Victoria Secret pajama set, we’re already sleeping in the same one for seven bucks! While they’re out dishing money on expensive clothing, we are using that money for food and tuition – on things that really matter as students. And you know what? Yes, we could probably afford both, but we choose to shop at stores like Value Village because we find expensive brands for a fraction of the price. How can anyone say no to that?
We’ve been shopping at thrift stores for years (for fun, costumes and for serious business), so we decided to take another trip together recently to do an unofficial research analysis on the items that you can find there for cheap. From the craziest items to brand-name unused items, we put our bias aside so that we could experience second-hand shopping through an objective perspective. Value Village is a one-stop-shop for unused beauty products, housewares, clothing and even furniture, so you will never have the excuse to be labeled as a broke student again!
Enjoy these tacky items we found at Value Village that the clothesminded believe second hand stores ONLY sell. Fashionistas and the second-hand stigma-ers: viewer discretion is advised.
Okay, we get it. When it comes to buying lingerie and underwear, second-hand stores are never a good idea. But, if you’re basing your second hand stigma solely on the underwear aisle, then you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. You really have to devote your time and actually look thoroughly through all the aisles to find the hidden treasures of Value Village. If you still have the stigma, great. That just leaves more clothes for us!
On our recent trip to VV we bought a plethora of sweaters, a cheese grater (because everyone needs one of those!) and jewelry (once a mutual friend found a real gold necklace for a dollar!). Another impressive buy included an unused, Elizabeth Arden gold plated makeup set for $2, and a new Victoria Secret pyjama set for $7. Don’t believe us? Check it out.
Hopefully we’ve cleared your mind from the stigma surrounding second-hand sales. Here are six stellar outfits, perfect for every occasion, from items that we have collected over the years – all for under $35.
1. Classy Casual
H&M sheer poncho – $7
Black leggings – $5
Aldo cowboy boots – $9
Grand total: $21
Where to wear:
-School functions
-Dinner (s) with princesses
-Girls night out
-On a magical date
2. Boho Chic
Floral shirt -$7
Red onesie – $5
Earrings – $3
Leather vintage purse – $8
Grand total: $23
Where to wear
-Outdoors with friends
-Downtown in the market (perhaps for a few pints)
-Anywhere you please (in the warm weather preferably)
3. Business/Professional
Sirens Blazer – $9
Jewel earrings – $2
Sirens pencil skirt – $5
Tall black boots – $10
Grand total: $26
Where to wear
-Networking nights/Job fairs
-Business lunch/meetings
-Job interview
4. Hipster
Beanie – $3
Sweater – $10
Camera case – $1.50
Leggings – $5
Sunglasses – $1
Grand total: $20.50
Where to wear
-Downtown, obvs! [infront of Urban Outfitters]
-Concerts (perhaps Mumford and Sons)
-Poetry Slam night
5. Sporty Spice
Ralph Lauren Polo – $8
Sunglasses – $1
Black Capris – $4
Grand total: $13
Where to wear
-Country clubs for a golf date
-Sporting events
-Dog park
6. Clubbing
Sirens Blazer – $8
Onesie – $7
Cowboy boots – $10
Vintage purse – $8
Grand total: $33
Where to wear
-To the club
-Drinks with the girls
-Fall dates
Once you get the hang of second-hand store shopping, you’ll never want to buy full price ever again, trust us.
XOXO,
The Thrift Queenz