Thrifting 101

By Sydney Mulford

Hyacinth / @huhyounggg via Pinterest

Throughout the past few years, I’ve heard people talk more and more about going thrifting. However, they often don’t know where to start or where to go. So, welcome to Thrifting 101.

First off, you have to have a plan beforehand. Research the best places to go, ask for advice, and plan a reasonable amount of time to spend at the (or each) store. Some vintage and antique stores might have higher prices and fewer items, while some chain stores will have a lot to sort through.

Next, make sure to get yourself in the right mood. Hype yourself up with your favorite drink—maybe it’s a latte, chai or cold brew. On the way there, have your favorite artist or genre blasting through the speakers. If you’re a podcast or audiobook person, listen to your favorite one. Just do whatever makes you comfortable and gets you ready.

When you get there, don’t get overwhelmed. There may be a lot going on, but you have the time. While it may sound daunting, you have to go through everything. Sort through all the aisles, all the racks and all the hangers—even all the different sections. If you traditionally shop in the women’s section, explore the men’s section and the larger children’s sizes.

While there, don’t be afraid to try something new—you never know what you might find. Have an open mind and pick out many different things to try on. However, make sure to inspect each item. You never know when they’ll have stains, rips or holes.

Once you’re ready to try things on, look around for fitting rooms. Oftentimes, they won’t have them, or they’ll be closed. If that’s the case, you can always find a corner to pull items over your clothes. Either way, stay open while you try everything on. You never know when a skirt could be a shirt—or vice versa.

Finally, do a few last quality checks before checking out. Keep an eye out for stains and make sure the price is reasonable. Even if you don’t find anything you love, don’t get discouraged. Try to keep a somewhat consistent schedule of thrifting to keep rotating through new items.