For most people thrift store shopping is too much of a hassle.  The thought of squeezing through dusty aisles filled with grandma’s hand me downs is in one word, unappealing.  Unfortunately, most have had a horrible experience in a junk filled store that’s left a bad taste in their mouth. 

We’re here to tell you that it’s not always like that and thrift stores have been given a bad rap.  Just like dating, you have to play the field  and find the right one! Via years of hiking through thrift stores with our mothers we have developed some tips on how to spot the treasures amongst the junk.

Give it a Chance

Most people are turned off by the thought of wearing clothes that are used. However, there are plenty of clean stores that provide lightly used and sometimes brand new clothing.  Just to be safe, you should always make a habit to wash after purchasing.  Of course, you should avoid stores that are stocked with damaged goods. If you see clothes piled on top of each other or lying on the floor that might be a sign to turn and run.

Check For Any Defects or Imperfections

If it’s ripped, has hole, or stained put it back!  Unless you’re looking for a cool tee to crop or some ripped jeans to convert to cut-offs there’s no point in buying it. However, exceptions can be made for designer pieces that are in good condition but may need to be taken in or the seam shortened.

Don’t BUY  if You Don’t LOVE

Countless times you’ll find yourself picking up an article of clothing, liking it, and then trying to convince yourself ways you could wear it.  You know what happens to that garment?  It ends up on the floor in the back of your closet.  You should see a piece and feel like you can’t wait to walk out the door to put it on immediately.  The point of thrift/vintage shopping is to find unique pieces that tell a story. Pieces that you feel couldn’t be found anywhere else in the world.  You want it to be special.  If you go grabbing for just anything because it’s cheap you’ll end up with a closet filled with junk.

What’s The Price?

The point of a thrift store is to be thrifty.  Yes you want to find one of kind pieces but its important to do so while saving money. There are great consignment shops that even offer discounts on items. Most times the prices are low ridiculously low to start.   Stores like Wasteland, Buffalo Exchange, and Crossroads will allow you to sell clothes for money or trade so you can save some bucks!

Where we Shop:

Goodwill, Out of the Closet, Wasteland, Buffalo Exchange, and Crossroads.  There are plenty more to choose from.  Make a day of it and Google search thrift stores around you and maybe you can find some new places to explore!