If you want to revamp your wardrobe or simply add a few key pieces, thrift stores can be major finds if you know what you’re looking for. Learn how to score inexpensive, fashionable clothing with this handy guide!
Come Prepared
Before you even set foot in a thrift store, you need to make sure you’re prepared. Thrift stores are often hot, messy, and cluttered so it pays to make your visit as comfortable as possible.
Wear clothing that allows for easy try-ons. Most thrift stores don’t have fitting rooms, so you’ll be trying clothes on over the ones you wear to the store. You’ll also want to go with a game plan in mind. You’ll be rummaging through a lot of clothing, so if you already know what you’d like to buy, it will make the process much easier.
Think Before you Buy
Even though you’re paying much less than you would at a regular store, money spent on something you’ll never wear is still money wasted, even if it’s just a few dollars.
Examine clothing racks thoroughly, but don’t waste time taking each item out. Instead, reach for the clothing that jumps out at you, whether it’s the color that catches your eye or the texture of the fabric.
When you find something you like, check out the garment for any tears, stains, or other flaws. Are they easily repairable? Can a stain be washed out? If so, it’s a good investment. Hard-to-remove stains or rips, tears, or loose stitching that’s not on a seam can be hard to get rid of, so you may want to avoid clothing with these kinds of issues.
Other Tips and Tricks
To maximize your “style quotient,” look for clothing that’s timeless. While I’m not a huge stickler for fashion trends, something that’s obviously outdated will probably not be something you wear very often. Another good rule of thumb to keep in mind — if you can’t think of at least three other items you own that will work well with the garment you’re considering, put it back!
Thrift stores can also be a great place to pick up accessories on the cheap!
You may even consider visiting thrift stores in higher-end districts. The clothing you’ll find there can often be of much higher quality than what you’ll find at other thrift stores. You may pay a little extra, but you’re still scoring great deals.
Shopping at thrift stores can be a great way to revamp your wardrobe and add a little personality on the cheap. Go with a goal in mind so you don’t end up over-buying, and you’ll be able to maximize your time efficiently.
Bottom line? Someone’s trash is inevitably another person’s treasure, so take your time and have fun!
What neat fashion finds have you scored at a thrift store? Do you regularly look for clothing or accessories at secondhand shops?
