There are a ton of reasons to start thrift shopping: buying secondhand is better for the environment, you can find one-of-a-kind-pieces, and it’s super affordable. However, I know how overwhelming it can be to step into Goodwill and see so many racks, and the disappointment of digging for hours but leaving with nothing. Here are my best tips to find super cute, high-quality items next time you go thrifting!
- Disregard sizes
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In my closet, I have thrifted pieces that range from an XS all the way to an XL. A lot of the pieces you’ll find are vintage and sized completely differently from clothes today. Even if you’re a tried-and-true medium, still check out all the different sections, and don’t be afraid to try on things that seem too big or small on the hanger. You’d be surprised at how differently things look on the rack versus on your body.
- Check out all the various sections
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You don’t have to stick to just the women’s racks. Two of my favorite spots are the lingerie and men’s sweater sections. In the lingerie section, you can find adorable slip dresses and lace tops, while the men’s sweaters tend to be higher quality and give you that slouched look that’s trending right now. I also recommend checking out the men’s denim section for straight-leg and dad jeans, as well as the outerwear section—all of my favorite coats are secondhand.
- Think about how you’d style each piece before you buy it
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A mistake I often make when I’m thrifting is buying a piece I think is super cute, coming back to my room, and realizing I have no idea what to wear it with. When you pick something up, try and picture a whole outfit in your mind. Maybe you find a pair of flare jeans that are to die for, but can you think of shoes, tops, and jewelry you’d pair them with? Visualizing will make sure you end up loving everything you buy.
- Check the tags
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One of the best parts of thrifting is realizing you got something for $4 that retails for $100. When you’re shopping, check the tags to see if you recognize any particular brands. I’ve found Coach, Ann Taylor, and Levi’s in Goodwill! Learning what vintage tags look like can also help you separate real vintage pieces from modern variations (hint: vintage clothing tends to be better quality). Of course, though, keep an open mind; you may still find great pieces from less recognizable brands.
- Take your time
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Try and give yourself enough time to really go through every single item on the racks. You’ll feel more relaxed, and looking through everything means you’re guaranteed to spot all the hidden gems!
Happy Thrifting!