Your Guide to the Best Thrift Finds

Are you new to thrifting? Do the racks seem overwhelming? Or maybe you're just looking for an extra edge to level up your thrift game. Shopping secondhand is great for both the environment and your budget, and knowing how to navigate a thrift store can bring your wardrobe to the next level. I've picked up some tried and true rules over the years, so here are 10 tips for a successful thrift trip:

1. Plan Your Attack

If the racks feel overwhelming, plan ahead by identifying the specific items you're looking for. Are you focused on finding a new pair of boots? Business casual clothes for a new job? Or some staple graphic tees? Create a Pinterest board for inspiration, write a list of specific items you want to find in your notes app, and go to the store with a plan in mind. You can refer back to your notes while shopping  to stay focused inside the store. 

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2. Stop Before You Shop

Put a limit on certain items and stick with it. This is the opposite of planning for what you want to find; knowing what you don't need is just as important. If your wardrobe is already overflowing with graphic tees (guilty),don't let yourself buy any more t-shirts, unless you're willing to donate what you already own. You can reduce your own consumption by spring cleaning and donating clothes you no longer wear, sometimes for store credit!

3. Move Fast (at First) 

My first move is always to quickly scan the racks, flipping through for colors and patterns that grab my attention. There is so much to look at in a thrift store, so if you start too slowly, you won't cover much ground. Once you have some initial options, you can slow down to assess what you've grabbed and check over the racks again more carefully for what you might have missed. 

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4. No Changing Rooms- No Problem!

These days, it's rare to find a thrift store with a changing room, and returns are often complicated or not allowed. No worries, there is a solution! Wear leggings or fitted shorts with a thin waistband that allow you to try on clothes over-top. A tight-fitting cotton tee, a tank top, or fitted longsleeve is also key. Make sure to wear easy slip-off shoes, so you don't have to fumble with laces (and always wear socks)! Don't be afraid to try things on in the aisle and find the closest mirror. I've never gotten in trouble for trying things on, just be respectful and find a space out of the way. I promise no one is judging! 

5. Does It Measure Up?

Keep a measuring tape handy and record your bust, waist, hip, and leg length measurements for future reference. Once you're in the store, you can measure the waist and length of a pair of pants before trying it on. Just hold the pants up flat and measure across at the waist- this measurement will be about half of your total waist measurement. Measure the length of the pants starting from the crotch down to the hem, to ensure they aren't too short or too long. This trick saves time, as you won't have to try on clothes that aren't a close fit. Luckily, some pants are sized by waist measurement, so you can pretty much tell if it will be a good fit by looking at the label. 

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6. Worse for Wear 

When determining the value of a piece, always check the label. If it’s 100% polyester, pay what it's worth- which is a couple bucks at most. Look for natural fibers and well-structured stitches that will hold up for years of wear. Also consider, is it dry clean only, which you have to treat delicately? Are you willing to hand wash and air dry? One of the best things about thrifting is finding vintage and well-made clothing for a fraction of the original price, but it's up to you to make it last. 

7. Avoid the Trendy Trap 

Decent trendy clothes can be abundant, often recently donated from somebody's seasonal wardrobe. But before you buy, check the quality of secondhand pieces, especially if the tag lists a fast fashion brand. Are the seams fraying? Is the fabric stretched out or thin? While it may be cute, cheap clothes like this may not survive another trip through the washing machine. Decide if it's truly worth your hard-earned money, and something you'll wear for years to come.

8. No Regrets

Now that you've filled your cart to your heart's desire, don't expect to take everything home. After trying on clothes, hold onto them a little longer to reassess. Can you think of two ways you could style each piece with items already in your closet?. Take a lap around the store and sort through everything in your cart again. Give yourself enough time to shop so you don't rush and think things through before checking out. Thrift regret is real, but most cases can be avoided!

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9. Beware of Vintage Shoes

I have found some amazing secondhand shoes, but the only ones worth buying were barely worn or brand new with the tags still on. After wearing some cute vintage wedges to my sister's graduation, the soles suddenly broke off, and I had to walk through the parking garage barefoot. After this experience, I'm very hesitant to buy shoes secondhand. If you do find a cute pair in the store, make sure to do a thorough shoe check: Is the leather cracking or peeling? Are the treads on the soles worn down? Are the shoes brittle instead of flexible? Tread carefully! These are signs that the shoes are not for you. 

10. Take the Time to Accessorize 

Belts, bags, scarves, and jewelry can elevate any outfit. Look for quality leather materials that aren't cracking or peeling. Tarnished metals can be cleaned with a toothbrush and some toothpaste at home, so don't write them off. Secondhand earrings can be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or dish soap. Always take the time to accessorize. Creating a strong accessory collection will truly bring your wardrobe to the next level! 

Keep these tips in mind for your next thrift trip and you might be surprised what you find. Good luck and happy thrifting!