How to Thrift Like a Pro – 10 Easy Ways to Save More was written by Zoe-Louise Thomlinson.
Over the past few years, thrifting has become one of the most popular shopping trends. Now that many people are turning away from fast fashion and moving towards sustainability, buying vintage and second-hand clothing has exploded. Thrifting is also very cost-effective, so many people turn to it as a shopping option during the cost of living crisis. However, if you have never been thrifting, you can easily feel overwhelmed, not knowing where to begin! Here are some of the best thrifting tips so that you can be prepared for your trip.
How to Thrift Like a Pro – 10 Easy Ways to Save More:
1. Trade Clothes Before You Go
One of the main problems people can face when they begin thrifting is that they end up buying too many clothes. Before your trip, look through your wardrobe and donate the clothes you do not wear. This way, you will be able to find amazing new additions to your wardrobe without flooding it with too many purchases!
2. Research The Shops Beforehand
There are many thrift shops, so it can be difficult to know where to start! However, by researching the shops beforehand, you can find the items you are looking for. For example, some thrift shops specialize in second-hand designer clothing, and others specialize in certain eras and styles. Some thrift stores display more furniture than clothing, so looking into the thrift shop before visiting it is important. By researching the thrift shops in your area, you will have an easier time finding what you are looking for.
3. Dress Appropriately
While many thrift shops are amazing at having hundreds of clothing articles, many of them do not have fitting rooms. This is why it is important to dress appropriately before you go thrifting. Make sure you wear layers that can easily be removed, so you can easily try on clothes over your outfit. For example, you can wear a base layer of a tank top and shorts, which makes it easy to slip clothes on over your base layer. This way, you can try items on before you buy them.
4. Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to secure a bargain while thrifting is to plan for future seasons. Like the high street, thrift stores also offer bargains on clothes not in season. For example, if you shop for winter boots or coats in the summer, you may find a great bargain, as winter boots and coats would be out of season. By planning ahead, you can stretch your dollar and improve your savings on key items!
5. Train Your Eye
One of the best thrifting tips is to know what you are looking for by training your eye. If you are looking for a specific item, try to hone your skills when searching through racks. It can feel overwhelming to find a specific item when there are racks upon racks, but training your eye to scan along hangers and racks is a great way to streamline the thrifting process. Be on the lookout for specific fabrics, cuts, styles, and embellishments – this will make it much easier to find the perfect item you are looking for.
6. Have A Methodical Approach
Instead of wandering aimlessly through the aisles, walk into every thrift store methodically. If you’re looking for a specific item, you should start by scanning the store. Usually, people keep certain types of items all in one place. For example, thrift stores often keep trousers, t-shirts, bags, and accessories in a specific part of the store. By locating the area, you can find what you need. This will help you shop smarter and spend less time endlessly searching.
7. Check Every Item You Pick Up
Because thrift stores often sell second-hand clothing, there may be some quality control issues, even if the staff is vigilant. When you have a high income of clothes coming in, it can be difficult to check all of them thoroughly. Therefore, whenever you pick up an item of clothing, thoroughly inspect it inside and out for any tears, cuts, or damages. You may be able to negotiate the price if you find a damaged item and repair it yourself! This is one of the best ways to ensure you know what you buy.
8. Bring A Set Amount of Cash
When people first start thrifting, they tend to overspend and end up with many clothing items they don’t need. Because the price is often much lower when compared to high street stores, the novelty can become overwhelming, causing people to buy and spend more than they anticipated. While this is not necessarily bad, it is not unheard of for people to massively overspend. Instead of forgoing a budget, try bringing a set amount of cash. This will allow you to make sure you are buying the items you need and not overspending for its sake.
9. Learn to Sew
One of the best ways to find great items in thrift stores is to learn how to sew. When you first start thrifting, you will often come across the perfect items that are too big or need a little letting out. For example, you could turn a full tracksuit into a cute cropped loungewear set or a long dress into a chic co-ord. You will also find items in beautiful fabrics that may be outdated but could be perfect when made into something else. By learning how to sew, you can mend thrifted items to create your perfect wardrobe on a budget.
10. Look Out For Deals
Another reason why people love thrifting as much as they do – cut is because they can snag an incredible deal. There are many reasons why items are donated to a thrift shop – many stunning vintage pieces end up in these stores because the previous owner is retiring or moving in with family. You can find everything from vintage Dior to designer loungewear sets at a huge discount! Make sure to keep your eyes peeled and scan the shop for a beautiful item at a fraction of the price.
By thrifting, you are helping the planet and your wallet simultaneously. If you keep these shopping tips in mind when you start thrifting, you will find better results and have a wonderful experience! Follow these clever tips on your next shopping excursion and watch how much money you save!
For more on fashion, read How to Pack Like a Fashionista – 10 Stylish Essentials.
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