Vintage is the new chic, but have you ever walked into a thrift store and wondered how people manage to find trendy items for such a steal? Thrifting is not always easy, but follow these tips and tricks and you can walk out of the thrift store with one of a kind pieces too!
1. Shop on Sale Days
As if getting a shirt for $5 wasn’t enough, you can go thrift shopping on the store’s sale days and score big! All you have to do is check out your local thrift store’s sale days.
2. Take Your Time
Make time! You’re not going to be able to walk in and walk out. You need to give yourself enough time to look through everything.
3. Be Open Minded
I’ll admit, sometimes you may go in and come out with nothing and sometimes it’s just luck. However, be open to the different pieces you may come across. If it’s not your size, you can make some adjustments. You can always try a belt or sew in a stitch or two. At the end of the day, it is a thrift store. If you’re looking for a very specific piece of clothing, it is best that you shop elsewhere.
4. Have a Goal
It’s a good tactic to have an idea of what you’re looking for. Since it’s Fall, that means it’s sweater weather! Thrift stores are the perfect place to find funky sweaters.
5. Search Every Section
The men’s section of thrift stores is like shopping in your boyfriend’s closet except it’s not your boyfriend! You can count on finding a plaid flannel or button-up shirt as “Old Man Winter” settles in this season. The home decor section is just as important to look at as the different clothing sections are! It’s the perfect place to look for little items to DIY for your room.
6. Look for Unique Pieces
Thrift stores have so many unique items, and that doesn’t stop at just clothes! Look for things that stand out to you and are different.
7. Inspect
Condition is important. Just because it’s $2 doesn’t mean you should buy it. You need to be able to actually wear it.
8. Try It On
If the item passes your condition inspection… try it on! You’ll be able to know if you should really buy it and aren’t being tricked into thinking it’s wearable because of the low price. With that in mind, wear clothes that aren’t difficult to change out of (i.e. something easy and comfortable) to your thrift store adventure.
9. Wash Your Items
The last and most important step is to be sure to properly sanitize your new items. Yes, we’re excited for these cool- vintage pieces, but let’s be real; put it in your washer, girl (maybe even twice)!
Good Luck and Happy Thrifting!