Buying clothing secondhand can help you save money, reduce your impact on the environment, and find unique pieces that let you express your style. However, sometimes thrifting can be inconvenient or disappointing because it takes time to sort through the selections at different stores and find the perfect piece. Here are five quick tips to help you build the thrift fall wardrobe of your dreams.
- Check Every SEction
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In secondhand stores, clothing sorts into men’s and women’s sections, but only sticking to one area means that you could miss out on some incredible finds. Be sure to check out the men’s section, too, for graphic t-shirts, sweatshirts, belts, oversized vintage sweaters, or even blazers and jackets. The accessories and shoe areas of thrift stores are also a great way to find unique statement items that you couldn’t get anywhere else.
- Don’t be afraid to make alterations
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Secondhand clothes sometimes aren’t perfect straight off the rack, so making some small changes can turn an unflattering or boring item into one of your favorites. If you know how to sew, you could make some major alterations, but there’s plenty of no-sew ways to upcycle thrift store finds.
You could embellish a plain item with patches, paint, embroidery, or cutouts. Give oversized sweaters or t-shirts an edgy twist by cropping them, or cut a pair of ill-fitting pants into some fun shorts. If you’re not sure about making a permanent change to something, adding a plain shirt underneath a dress or a belt to a pair of pants can add some interest to your look and improve the fit of an item.
- know your measurements
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Sizes are inconsistent across brands, and vintage sizes are often measured differently than modern ones. Knowing your measurements will make sizing easier if you want to have a better idea of how something will fit without needing to try it on. You can measure your waist, hips, and bust with a measuring tape and use those measurements to guide which sections you might find the most luck.
For certain items that you might want to fit looser or tighter, like t-shirts or sweaters, knowing your exact size will help you find the precise style for which you are searching. - Wear the right outfit to shop
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Many secondhand stores and estate sales don’t have fitting rooms, so you may have to try on clothing over what you’re already wearing. A form-fitting, comfortable outfit like leggings and a tank top will be easy to try clothes on over without changing how they’ll fit. If you’re planning on buying shoes, be sure to bring an extra pair of socks so you can try them out.
- Make it fun!
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Thrifting should be fun, so find ways to make it exciting for you! Going thrifting at a few stores or estate sales with friends is an inexpensive way to spend an afternoon, or listening to music while you shop on your own can be a relaxing form of self-care.
Feel free to make use of these tips!