My top thrifting tricks, just right in time for the fall/back to school shopping!
This post is a collaboration and with Value Village. As always, the opinions are mine alone!
I haven’t gone back to school for actually, quite a long time, but this doesn’t mean that I can’t be nostalgic about this season. The only thing I’d like to do is get new clothes, stationary, and books. In the past, as I’ve cut down on my wardrobe over the last couple of months (see my open concept closet) I’ve attempted to be aware of the clothes I bring to our living space. I’m also much more conscious of my use of fashions that are trendy and thrifting is an excellent way for me to keep a balance. It’s like taking a small step towards keeping some clothes from going to waste and also giving me the feeling of something brand new, even if it’s just new to me. I often also bring clothes to donate whenever I go to the shop to ensure that I’m making my wardrobe more compact and allowing room for a few new purchases.
To begin this ongoing collaboration to work with Value Village (so exciting, you think? ) I’m going to share couple of thrifting tips that I’ve gathered throughout the decades.
1. Take Your Time While You Explore
This is crucial when you are thrifting as it requires you to be patient while browsing. It’s a lot of fun to sort through the piles of clothes. It also adds a special touch when I come across a rare item. It’s the excitement of hunting for me! Additionally, I like to shop as unwindingly as I can and visit the stores in the weektime during more tranquil times.
2. Don’t be too focused on the size of the label
A reason that thrifting can take so long is that it’s beneficial to browse through as much as you can. I tend to go with my normal size initially, but I take a look at what’s available with the size below as well as the sizes above. This means I’m searching for the sizes M L, XL, and M that can take quite a while. I’ve come across a lot of clothes not the “usual” size, and I wouldn’t have seen or even tried on if I didn’t expand my options.
3. Check out the section for men.
Above below is one of my most cherished Value Village finds…ever! It’s a silk men’s shirt (Club Monaco and everything) and it’s gorgeous. The section of clothing for men will often include stylish sweaters, button-ups as well as jackets. Most likely, they’ll be classified as large however, it’s a complete look that I love!
4. Shop Everyday
The other week, I visited the neighborhood Value Village and didn’t find any items. I returned the next day, and after rummaging through the same clothing racks I came across 3 items worth purchasing! I also love checking out various areas. I enjoy visiting thrift stores in small cities, as well as suburbs for a unique assortment. I’d say that I’ve had the greatest success with amazing vintage and retro pieces in places far from the bustling cities.
5. Have fun!
I make an effort not to walk to a thrift shop with an excessive amount of expectations. Of of course, there is always a wish list, but when I walk into Value Village with only one particular item in mind, for instance for instance, a blue blazer I’m often unable to looking for anything else. I believe it’s beneficial having a couple of options you’re thinking of (so so that you do not get too carried away with your spending) but it’s also important to make sure to look through each section for more things because you never have a clue what you will come across!
Have any advice or tricks you’d like to like to add to this list? I’d like to hear about your thoughts in the comments section below!