Retail therapy is all fun and games until your bank app starts spamming notifications about your remaining card balance. Between tuition, textbooks, and bi-weekly trips to Chick-fil-A, being a baddie on a budget can feel almost impossible. If there’s one skill every college woman should master, it’s the art of second-hand shopping.
Thrifting isn’t only a mega lifehack for elevating your wardrobe without breaking the bank, but also a great way to stay sustainable and give vintage pieces a second life. Online retailers like Amazon can be tempting in the modern world of fast fashion, but nothing beats the thrill of finding a one-of-a-kind piece that no one else on campus will be wearing.
Even though Tallahassee may not be a major metropolitan city, you can still find some hidden gems, like vintage FSU merchandise and designer items for a fraction of the price. Whether you’re sifting through the Goodwill bins or simply window shopping, here are some spots I think you should add to your weekend itinerary.
THE OTHER SIDE VINTAGE
You could spend hours in this massive Railroad Square warehouse and still have countless more clothes and accessories left to be discovered. My favorite part about the store is that they have specific sections for every kind of vibe: y2k, emo, goth, and even Halloween costumes! Whether you’re throwing a themed party or just wanting to refresh your everyday style, there’s a corner of the store with your name on it.
While walking into this store can feel super overwhelming due to its sheer size alone, it’s super easy to browse the different sections and see exactly what goes where. Trinkets, décor, clothes, accessories—The Other Side Vintage has it all!
THE LIVING HARVEST
The Living Harvest is a non-profit organization with the cutest storefront right next to FSU’s campus. Not only is this a great spot for clothes, records, and home décor, but they also run a program focused on rehabilitating individuals & families with criminal justice involvement and substance abuse issues.
All proceeds from their thrift shop go back into the local community through this rehabilitation program, where they provide food, housing, and other support programs to those in need. Shopping here gives you the unique opportunity to find hidden treasures and fund a good cause at the same time.
FSU’S MARKET WEDNESDAY
If you’ve ever had to walk across campus on a Wednesday morning, you’re probably no stranger to FSU’s Market Wednesday. The tents and tables across Legacy Walk are impossible to miss, as they always draw a large and lively crowd throughout the day.
This collection of vendors ranges from second-hand clothes, handmade jewelry, and even fresh-baked goods. Market Wednesday is the closest thing to a flea market I’ve found in Tallahassee, and they truly have something for everyone. Plus, most vendors are either fellow students or local small business owners, so you’re supporting your community with every purchase.
GOODWILL
While Goodwill may seem like the obvious option for second-hand shopping, I feel like people don’t appreciate the big-box store enough. Though it may require a more thorough approach to sifting through racks upon racks of clothing, Goodwill remains the cheapest and most extensive option for used clothing and homeware.
My only advice is to have patience. Set aside plenty of time to check every rack, and don’t be afraid to do a little digging. Some of my best finds have come from the very back of the men’s denim section, covered by at least fifteen other articles of clothing. Make sure to visit often, too, because they’re constantly switching out their inventory.
RETROFIT RECORDS
Not into fashion? Don’t worry, Tallahassee is also home to Retrofit Records, where you can buy and sell used vinyl.
This store has something for every kind of music lover and frequently hosts album release listening parties with exclusive merchandise. After spending the morning at a thrift store, you can swing by this record shop and level up your listening game, too. Whether you’re a long-time vinyl lover or just bought your first turntable, flipping through the countless crates is a great way to find new artists and decorate your dorm at the same time.
With these recommendations, I wish you the best of luck with your next thrifting trip!
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