Thrift shopping is something many people are afraid of. It’s very intimidating to walk into a store filled with an abnormal amount of shoes, clothes, and accessories. You don’t know where to start or what exactly to look for, but I’m hoping these tips and advice will help you be successful when taking on the challenge/blessing that is thrift shopping!
1. It’s going to take some time
I want to make sure that you know before you step foot into the store that it will take some time. I don’t want you to expect to go into a thrift store, spend five minutes looking around and find 15 perfect things for you. I’m being honest when I say it sometimes takes FOREVER, but that’s only if you’re super committed to finding something cute or practical. There are racks and racks of t-shirts, pants, sweaters, long sleeve shirts, active wear, you name it, but in the mess of it all, there are SO MANY hidden treasures.
2. You may not hit the jackpot every time
When I started thrift shopping, I would go in with super high expectations. I assumed I would find 5 cute sweaters, 3 pairs of jeans and 5 t-shirts, but a number of times I’ve walk out empty handed. BUT, don’t lose hope! It all depends on the day/time of year/time of day but once you have that day where everything is cute and everything is perfect for you, those other days will NOT matter.
3. Look through the home section
Most people our age usually pass through the aisle with the weird Santa statues, the frosted glass candle holders, and the out of date picture frames, but seriously take a look through this aisle at some point during your trip. I have found jewelry holders, makeup brush holders, and simple picture frames for super cheap (mind you when I found these they were candle holders or bowls meant to hold potpourri, but still). With an open mind, you can turn a lot of out of date grandma decorations into cute, practical things!
4. The men’s section is a God send for both guys and girls
I myself spend most time in the men’s section of thrift stores looking through the super big t-shirts, dad like sweaters, and old leather jackets. It all depends on personal style of course, but if you like oversized sweaters, graphic tees and comfy turtlenecks, I really recommend taking a look through the male section. Also, try to be open to cutting the crap out of some things. I’ve cut t-shirts, jeans and sweaters to make it more my style. I found a pair of jeans that I would never wear but I decided to cut them and now they’re all I wear!
5. Vintage fashion is in!
As you’ve probably noticed, vintage style has made a strong comeback in millennial fashion. High-waisted jeans, velvet shirts, and wool turtlenecks are back stronger than ever and thrift stores are a GOLD MINE for these! These items will look super similar to sweaters you’ve considered buying at Urban Outfitters or Zara but will be less than half the price, at least! Take the time to search through the itchy sweaters and camp t-shirts and you’ll look like you’re wearing an outfit worth $200!
6. Look through the shoe section
I know what you’re thinking… “This is disgusting. I would never wear people’s old shoes”. I thought the same thing when I first started, but I’m not lying when I say there are shoes that are pretty much brand new or that are cleaner than some you have at home. I have found a pair of brand new white Adidas Superstars and a new pair Nike Roches both for under $12! I do recommend cleaning them even if they look new because, well…you know.
7. Records, Movies, Books, CDs = yes!
If you’re a bookworm, you love a good record, or you just want an old DVD to pop into your player, go to the thrift store! The number of books, CDs, tapes, and DVDs they have is unbelievable and you can easily find some that you will like (plus, they’re super cheap). Records are a great find here too. Elvis, Amy Winehouse, AC/DC, they have so many, I swear. P.S. the quality of each record may not be perfect but I like to take a little risk for $2.50.
8. Bags, Bags, Bags!
Purses, workout bags, and backpacks are always hidden treasures in thrift stores. Sifting through a hundred bags is worth it when you find a newish Louis Vuitton bag for $20! Disclaimer: This doesn’t always happen but there is a strong possibility you’ll find a great bag for cheap.
Happy thrifting everyone!