Do you ever have a slight envious feeling when you compliment someone’s outfit and they tell you it’s entirely thrifted? Does it seem like everyone is able to find the cutest thrifted items and you aren’t having any luck? Well, then you’re in luck! I have been an avid thrifter for several years, and I have discovered some of my closet staples at a thrift store. Today, I’m going to share some of the tips I’ve discovered so you can have the same success at your local thrift store!
- Check all the sections of the store
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This is where a lot of shoppers go wrong: they only go to the sections in the thrift they think applies to them. If they’re a college-age woman, they typically go to the women’s section and leave if nothing interests them. Do not do this! Shop in all sections of the store. Check out the men and women’s sections in all sizes. Size and clothing type is so arbitrary so don’t be afraid to comb through the entire store! You never know what you may find tucked away in the men’s blazer section!
- Be patient
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If you really want to get the most out of your thrift store trip, you may have to spend some time going through the racks. Items often get tucked behind other articles of clothing, and you may totally miss it if you’re just passing by. If you decide to go thrifting with a friend, I recommend you both start at different racks and point out any items the other person may like! Regardless, pack your patience!
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with styles
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One of the best things about thrift stores is that most of the items are very inexpensive! Feel free to branch out with different styles or textures that you haven’t typically grabbed in the past; you may totally surprise yourself!
- Investigate the clothes before you purchase them
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I must say I have been very guilty of this one in the past. When people donate items to thrift stores, they have often been well-loved and worn over and over again. Investigate each item before you purchase it for stains, rips, tears, or other blemishes you may not notice right away. The imperfections can oftentimes be solved with a needle and some thread or a stain remover, so don’t feel like you have to put it back! Just investigate the items while you’re in the store so you don’t find the surprise later on!