Thrifting Tips

• Time, patience, and an open mind are the  main things you'll need to possess when entering a stinky store full of old, unwanted clothes from all over the area.

• One man's trash is another's treasure, block negative thoughts about the clothing being used and unacknowledged. Don't worry about the origin (if it belonged to a cat lady or someone now deceased), it's not that deep. 

• Don't worry if it's not in style, or outdated. Do you like it? Fashion repeats itself, everything is "in".  Form your own trends.

• Lots of treasure awaits, you'll need to move through racks on racks, piece by piece to find it though. 

• Do NOT focus on the labeled size. I purchased a size 6/8  blazer that buttons all the way up 0_0 ... and  Lord knows I don't wear a size 6 anything. The sizing inside a thrift store is completely different from modern day retail clothing. Try everything on!

• Ever liked the pattern of an item but not the form? Or maybe you admired the cut, but the pattern was awkward? Maybe you loved everything about it, but it was 5 sizes too big? STILL try it on. Once that $2 item is on your body, that one minor flaw may become irrelevant. 

• So what if it's ugly? Says who? Make it cute. I have found that the really outdated, old lady dresses come to life with modern shoes, precise makeup, and a nice skinny belt

• Don't forget the accessories! Thrift stores always have a plethora of (sometimes REAL) gold, button earrings and skinny belts for about $1-$3 each. They even look nicer and are constructed better than the trendy look-alikes being sold in stores. I've been a fan of such jewelry before it became trendy, so this is my favorite section of the store.

• Too small? Wear it open. Too big? Try different  ways to wear the items. Tie it up, tuck it in, belt it,  if you really like it, have it altered. My local cleaners only charge $6-$9 to alter a skirt, if I only paid $3 for it, i'm still winning.

• Find out which day of the week your store of choice has additional markdowns. One of my fave spots has an addl' 50% off on Wednesdays.  Got a couple of my fave shirts for $1.50 or so. 

• Dress comfortably, maybe a sundress, or something with no layers.  Wear no/ limited makeup, this applies to anywhere where you're gonna try things on. Thrift stores usually aren't extremely breezy though, and the "rooms"  barely support a pair of wide hips, so eliminate anything extra.

• Search all sections. I haven't bought any yet, but men's  items will work if you desire a relaxed or "boyfriend fit". The extra durable men's belts also work, especially for the "hippy" women.

©2013