Thrifting can be a fun adventure and seems to be becoming more popular! Whether to blame the recession or to blame Macklemore, I’m not sure. But I have been popping tags since high school and have gathered some tips for how to (and not to) spend that twenty dollars in your pocket! Follow this advice, and it’ll be f***ing awesome.
Five Items to Buy at the Thrift Shop
1. Quality Brand Names
You have to search for them, but they are there. I promise! I do admit that at home, I live near some pretty nice areas and quality brand names may be more difficult to find in rural South Carolina. But when you find that gem, it’s all worth it. I’ve found JCrew, Seven, and many other recognizable brands at thrift stores.
2. Satchels
If you’re like me, a satchel/side bag is one of your favorite pieces. I have a few non-thrift ones that I wear during the day. However, I also have one from the thrift shop ($2) that is perfect for fraternity parties, gamedays, and any other place and time where there’s a possibility my bag could get ruined.
3. Themed Party Gear
Classic. Whatever your function or party theme, there is something at the thrift shop for you. $5 Prom? 60s? America theme? The thrift shop has you covered. I’m just waiting for the next 80s function/party to break out my amazing finds!
4. Oversized Sweaters
Oversized sweaters are everywhere in the thrift shop. Of course, look for brands you know and like. Don’t be afraid to look in the men’s section! This sweater is a Liz Claiborne ($3) and I wear it all the time!
5. Mom Jeans / Future Jorts
Mom jeans are all over the thrift shop. We could even call them grandma jeans. Do not overlook them. A pair of Faded Glory mom jeans ($2) along with a pair of scissors make for some great jorts. ‘Merica. Or even some great designer looking shorts (pictured above)
Six Items to NOT Buy at the Thrift Shop
1. Shoes
Even Macklemore passes up on the moccasins someone else’s been walkin’ in.
2. Undergarments
Is there really a need to explain this?
3. Pajamas
DO NOT take those flannel zebra jammies. The materials used to make pajamas are often flimsy. Also, many people, believe it or not, do not wear undergarments with their pajamas. Gross.
4. Work Wear
Work wear, especially interview wear, should be crisp and well tailored. That’s just not what you find at thrift stores.
5. Anything Looking Already Worn
If it already looks worn in, it’s not a quality fabric. Look for pills. Look for stains and discoloration. Most thrift stores scan their items for these problems, but they can miss some really unsightly wear and tear.
6. Basics
If it’s a basic, you’re going to be wearing it over and over. You’ll want something that fits well, is a good material, and is all your own!
There’s some simple tips for how to thrift shop for clothing! There are several Thrift shops in the area, one on Old Greenville Highway across from Bi-Lo in the same complex as Gold’s Gym & On 76 in the same complex as the Bi-Lo before Anderson.
Photo Credits:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/12…
http://totalfratmove.com/wp-co…
http://assets.accessoriesmagaz…
http://blog.onlinefashionoutle…
http://www.nwedible.com/wp-con…