For many people, thrifting isn’t a way to shop: It’s a lifestyle. If that sounds like you, follow these nine tips to find the best deals:
#1 Shop-off Season and Mid-week
Most people buy clothes they’ll wear that season, which makes sense if you’re buying from retail stores. However, when you’re buying from thrift stores, you can get immense discounts during the off-season. No one’s going to buy shorts in December, which means they’ll most likely be on sale. Moreover, many people donate clothes at the end of the season. Thrift stores can get pretty crowded. If you wish to shop in peace, consider visiting the store in the middle of the week. You can find great deals and might get an employee to help you find the best stuff.
#2 Wear Tight Clothing
Here’s a downside to visiting a thrift store in person: There are no fitting rooms. Stripping in the middle of a store to try on a pair of jeans is highly uncomfortable. Therefore, wear tight clothing or take off your hoodie before going on. Consider wearing leggings and a tank top to try on pants, dresses, and sweatshirts quickly.
#3 Search Online Thrift Stores
Buying from online thrift stores is more convenient than you’d think. First, you don’t have to put up with a crowd. Moreover, in many cases, you might be able to find a bigger variety than in physical thrift stores. Here are some tips you should follow when buying clothes from an online thrift store:
- Check the garment measurements instead of solely relying on the size tag.
- Carefully review the seller’s provided details, such as color, material, condition, and wash instructions.
- Always check the seller’s reviews and reputation to get your money’s worth.
Some of the best online thrift stores offer high-quality products and excellent price deals.
#4 Navigate Section by Section
Have you ever gone to the mall and felt overwhelmed looking at the sheer number of choices? Well, the chances of that happening at a thrift store are incredibly high. Having a list of clothing categories you’re going to buy can be helpful. Otherwise, navigate the thrift store section by section. Instead of visiting the entire store at once, stick to a few sections, such as jeans, shirts, and boots. Thrift overwhelm is real, but you can take steps to avoid it!
#5 Go Prepared
Have you ever found an incredibly good dress while thrifting but lost it to someone else because you didn’t go prepared? We have all been there. Here are some things you should always keep with yourself:
- Measuring Tape: Keep a small measuring tape in your bag to see if the piece fits without trying it. You can check if a dress will fit you around the waist.
- Carry Cash: Many thrift stores don’t accept credit card payments or online bank transfers. Therefore, it is important to have a bit of cash with you.
- Water Bottle: Keep yourself hydrated while thrifting by carrying a portable water bottle.
- Hand Sanitizer: Thrift items can sometimes be dirty. Keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer and use it frequently, as you’ll be touching many racks and hangers.
Lastly, keep your phone charged and have a power bank in your bag in case you run into an issue.
#6 Go For Quality Over Price
Just because something is cheap doesn’t mean you should get it. Ask yourself:
- Will I wear this?
- At what occasion do I see myself wearing this?
- Do I already own a similar piece?
Assess the quality of your shortlisted items. The last thing you want is to end up with numerous poor-quality items that’ll take up unnecessary space in your closet. Look for items that will make your wardrobe versatile.
#7 Set Time Limits Per Store
If you’re visiting multiple local thrift stores in one day, consider giving yourself a time limit for each store. Such time constraints will help you stay on track and buy the items you actually came for. Your mental energy is a precious resource, and limiting your time at each store will help you save it.
#8 Don’t Be Afraid to Move Things Around
Here’s a thing about thrift stores: No one is going to hand you the best quality items (not even the employees!) The good stuff is often hidden behind shelves and under piles. Therefore, don’t be afraid to move things around and look under piles of items.
#9 Keep an Open Mind
It is pretty rare to go to a thrift store with specific pieces in mind and actually find them. Instead of getting sad or disappointed, keep an open mind and assess similar items. Instead of looking for a black mini dress with red bows, look for a black dress. Leave room for customization and alternation.
Moreover, step out of your comfort zone and try on pieces you’ve been too scared to wear. Thrifting is an excellent opportunity to be creative with your personal style!
