Thrift Tip #1: Have a Game Plan
Keep in mind the things you’re looking for. Don’t be shy to even write a quick list in cell phone that you can refer back to while you’re in the store. And then, leave the rest up to the thrifting gods because some pieces are just looking to find you.
Thrift Tip #2: Beware of Unexpected Wear
It goes without saying that when you’re thrifting, you’re buying pieces that other people have worn and lived in. Before buying, inspect the garment for any stains that cannot be removed, as it reduces it’s value if you ever wanted to re-sell. Watch for old tissues in pockets. And keep in mind because of the nature of the handling of garments in thrift stores and charity shops, you probably won’t get top notch quality in vintage clothing, if that’s what your looking for. And on a store-to-store basis, there’s an exception to every rule.
Thrift Tip #3: Sizes Don’t Matter
Size doesn’t matter when it comes to body image and they certaintly don’t matter when you are thrifting. You’re bound to find some pieces that are from different countries and different eras and the sizing isn’t rarely accurate to today’s standards. Your best bet? Don’t go by the label, if it says it’s a size 10 but looks like a size 4, then its probably a 4. Which leads me to my next tip…
Thrift Tip #4: Know Your Measurements
From your shoulders, bust, waist and hips – know your measurements.Sometimes there are no dressing rooms and trying on your finds over your clothes may just not be an option for you. So how do you know if it fits? Bring a measuring tape and measure the piece you’ve got your eye on to see if your measurements will match up with your own. Some stores, even have measuring sticks available for you. And no matter how much you want it, if it doesn’t fit – it doesn’t fit. And goodness gracious, nothing looks worse than when a garment fits poorly on the body.
Thrift Tip #5: Try on Everything
Even if it looks too big, too strange. Sometimes, cuts can look weird on the hanger but often times, they fit like an absolute dream when you try them on.
Thrift Tip #6: Get Imaginative with Your Find
If you like something but it’s too big, you can take it to a tailor and have it altered the way you would like. Remember you can always take in a garment that’s larger than your size but it’s much more difficult to alter a piece that is a smaller size than your own to fit you. And those pesky shoulder pads? They can always be removed.
Thrift Tip #7: Establish a Gotta Love it Policy
When it comes to thrift, it takes time to become accustomed to how to shop effectively, so you actually wear the pieces that you buy. You can go by this rule of thumb: if you love it, can’t be without it, then you’ve got a good find on your hands. If you’re iffy or second-guessing the piece, that let it go for someone that can’t be without.
Are there any other tips that I left out that you thrifting veterans out there would add to this list? I would love to hear from you! Until then – thrift on babes, thrift on…