It is not uncommon to desire a new wardrobe as the temperature rises. With concerts, graduation parties, and beach trips becoming a staple within the next few months, it would be preposterous not to have a new outfit to sport! However, with all these events and summer pass times, your wallet will likely cringe. That is why we are here today: to help you become the ultimate thrifter and ensure your wallet and closet are both satisfied.
Find a good store
Finding the right store is crucial to an enjoyable shopping experience. Every store might not be right for every shopper; however, not every shopper is right for every store. If this is your first time visiting a thrift store, you are better off going to a more specific thrift store, geared towards your style.
For example, thrift stores such as Plato’s Closet are more likely to carry trendier items at a higher price, whereas stores such as Goodwill are more general and carry clothes based on quality rather than their tags. While this does not make one store better than another, it may make your shopping experience better if you know exactly what you are looking for.
Be patient
Thrifting is not as easy as regular shopping. When you shop at Old Navy and like a shirt, you simply pick the color and size of that specific shirt and then pay for it. At thrift stores, the selection is much more rare and unique. If you like a shirt, but the store does not carry your size, you are most likely out of luck with finding it. However, if you take the time to pick through the selection, looking for your size and style, you will be surprised at how many items may catch your eye.
Go in with the mentality of spending a couple of hours in the store. This may seem overwhelming, but trust me, once you begin to feel the store’s flow, you won’t want to leave. It also helps to do some online shopping or browsing on Pinterest beforehand; this ensures that you can go in with a goal in mind rather than no idea and no motivation.
How to look for quality
While many thrift stores go through a process of screening items before placing them on the shelf, it is possible for clothing to have stains, holes, or tears. When finding an item, ensure you thoroughly check for any abnormalities to prevent noticing them after paying, as many thrift stores do not accept returns.
How to maintain quality
Once you are home, remember to wash your items in their respective natures. While clothing is required to be clean for donation, some items may have been sitting on the rack for multiple months before purchase. Many items have already lived a life of their own and are somewhat worn down. Be gentle and careful with these items when washing, drying, and wearing to ensure they last for a while.
Check the tags and take note of what can be machine washed, hand washed, and what requires a trip to the dry cleaner. If you are not willing to be this strict with your laundry, scan the tag before purchasing and ensure it is machine washable.
Know when to go
Many thrift stores switch out their selections depending on the season. To have a wider selection, make a point of visiting as the season comes to an end, before the weather completely changes. For winter clothing, try visiting during late August or early September; for summer wear, late March and early April work best.
Fast fashion has been extremely popular, promoting excessive consumerism for items that lose value within a couple of months – or even weeks. The value of thrifting is finding timeless pieces at an affordable price with just a little more effort. With these tips and tricks, you can enjoy all your summer activities in new outfits, while still looking out for your wallet.
