Thursday, October 11, 2018

Thrifting 101

Are you someone who's on a tight budget but who maybe needs some retail therapy every once in a  while? Or likes to switch out clothes like Taylor Swift changes out boyfriends? Maybe you're obsessing over Joanna Gaines' home transformations with her ridiculously charming decor and your favorite Instagram Influencer's #ootd all over their stories with "under $50" and it's really $49.99 plus shipping when you finally swipe up. Whatever the case I'm here to tell you it's possible to have it all and actually spend way less than what you'd think.

Just because something is "second hand" doesn't mean it's crusty, stinky or old. In fact, thrifting is just like treasure hunting but you have to have a little idea of what you're doing. That's why I'm here to share some tips that I use when I'm out thrifting!

 I had a huge haul recently and all of it was under $50!! Everything I found was at Goodwill. From off the shoulder dresses, to the cutest wedges and heels.








1) STORE CHOICE. It's all about where you go. Nothing against the small thrift shops because sometimes I find the most unique pieces in these stores, but if you're looking for more of the designer, name brand items, I'd suggest trying places like Goodwill, Deseret Industries or Salvation Army.

2) LOCATION. Going along with the above tip I have to say location is so important. A more established area is going to have more of an inventory. More inventory means more chances for you to find the perfect pieces. Usually in my experience I've found that these stores will also have better quality, less condition issues and higher name brands.

3) THINK AHEAD. Always have some sort of an idea of what you're looking for. There are literally thousands of items to sort through so it can get overwhelming. I like to Pinterest some outfits for inspo or even have one specific item that maybe I want to make outfits around. It helps to narrow things down.

3.5) THINK AHEAD CONT. The stores will be organized by color and styles. Like T-shirts, long sleeves, short etc. My closet is literally organized by color and I pretty much stick to the same tones and styles so I know that's what I'm looking for when I get there. Saves time for sure!

4) HAVE TIME. If you're in a rush or have distractions to where you can't focus you probably won't find much. I could literally look for hours, if I actually had that kind of time. But in all honesty, I'd say a good hour would be a good starting point. Again, there are thousands of items to sift through so having some time is key.

5) Check out other resale stores in your area! A few of my favorites are Plato's Closet, Clothes Mentor and Last Chance. These places are great for finding gently used, trendy clothes and accessories but also a good way to make a quick buck or two by selling or trading in your clothes you don't want anymore. They are all a little different but I can confidently say that Plato's buys and sells teen-young adult styles and brands (think like F21, Brandy, Zara, Levis etc) and they are all styles from the last couple years to current trends. Plus, they have a buyer who sorts through your clothes same-day and they'll pay you, in cash, on the spot after making sure there are no condition issues (fading, holes that aren't supposed to be there, spots etc. Cut them a break though, everyone is human so not everything you find is going to be perfect, alright? Always good to call ahead and see how long their wait time is, too, especially on the weekends.

6) Don't forget to check the home goods sections! You won't believe what some people get rid of. I found my juicer for $15 and before I bought it I looked it up on amazon and it's a $300 juicer!! Obviously you should wash anything you buy second hand, that goes for clothes, juicers, furniture, whatever haha

I'm always up for talking and answering questions about thrifting. It was my job for a total of almost 10 years! So leave comments with questions or if you have your own tips!

Happy thirfting!!




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