4 THRIFTING TIPS TO ACHIEVE YOUR DREAM CLOSET

Many don’t want to thrift because they see it as unapproachable, or their thrift stores have nothing to offer. This is just not true! Besides the environmental benefits, the beauty of thrifting is that anyone and everyone can thrift! It definitely can be challenging at first; however, I encourage you to try using my tips as a guide, and I promise you will find more than you think.

As a professional shopaholic, and a visitor of my local thrift store roughly six times a week, I will finally stop gatekeeping the thrifting tips that have helped me so much over the years.

#1 Go EVERYWHERE.

The most important thing to do when you shop thrift is to go to every section, regardless of age or gender. The reason I say this is due to several reasons. 1) Sometimes things get mixed up and put in the wrong section (crop tops will be put in the kids' section, oversized tees’ will be in the men’s section). 2) People will put their “takebacks” in the corner of the kid's or men’s racks, and you will find the cutest hidden tops, dresses, pants, etc. And finally, 3) You can find unique pieces at the different racks. Going to the lingerie section for silky pieces will help you find Victoria’s secret mini dresses, lace maxi skirts, and shapewear (bodysuits, tight tops, and corsets). In conclusion, go everywhere! Don’t miss out!

#2 Bring Entertainment

Since you are taking a significant amount of time to go around the store, bringing headphones and something to listen to will prevent you from getting burnt out (and, ultimately, spending less time in a department). Keeping yourself entertained and motivated to shop the whole store to find the ultimate pieces is crucial. Also, walking around, shopping, and listening to music/podcasts is super relaxing. The perfect way to unwind and take some time for yourself!

#3 Take Your Time

I usually spend about 2-3 hours at the thrift store to take it all in. The next tip is to take your time! Chunk out a large amount of your day for shopping. Going through all the sections, picking out the pieces you want and don’t want, trying some on, and finally checking out. You can’t thrift for 20 minutes and find good pieces. You just can’t. Taking all the time to look around and take it all in will ensure you took full advantage of the store and its offers.

#4 Bring Your Own Bags

Finally, once you have your new wardrobe, it is time to check out. Unlike retail shops, thrift stores usually require you to pay a fee of 10 cents or more for a bag to carry all your bags. Bringing bags from home not only saves you money, but further pushes along the whole purpose of thrifting, which is to save the environment, and utilize what you already have!

To conclude, thrifting is the best way to save money, help the planet, all while finding unique and cool pieces! If you are new to thrifting or haven’t had as much success, try these tips as a guideline for your next trip. Happy thrifting!