Thrift Store Shopping 101

Few things beat the thrill of finding extraordinary items at extraordinary prices. Thrift store shopping is one of the most affordable ways to build a stylish or well-curated wardrobe, while simultaneously also helping the environment. It’s true that sustainably made clothing is gaining some traction, however production costs are pretty steep, resulting in high price tags. Few people can afford a $150 pair of jeans made out of recycled plastic! Buying used clothing is one of the most effective ways of keeping clothing out of landfills. It is estimated that around 85% of clothing bought by Americans end up in landfills every year.

Spring Clean Beforehand

Before embarking on a thrift store adventure, make sure to go through your closet. Are there items in there that you haven't worn in forever? Are you really going to wear that rainbow sweater someday? Depending on your hoard level, you should do a thorough or quick scan of your wardrobe to make room for the steals you’ll bring home. Plus you could donate or sell used clothing. Online thrift stores are popping up everywhere. You could make a couple or a LOT of dollars from selling your used clothing right from the comfort of your home! Not only are you helping the environment, you're also helping your pockets.

Set out with Purpose

Knowing what you need before setting out is very important. This usually keeps you on task and within budget. Are you in need of work wear? Or summer dresses? Are you looking for a vintage jacket? Having a general idea of what you’re looking for helps you shop better and reduces stress. While you should keep an open mind, going in purposeless may put you right back where you started-a closet full of apparel you'll never wear.

Have a firm-ish Budget

The relatively low price tags of thrift store clothing can be budget traps. Those shirts are only $5? Wow, I definitely have to grab a couple! A couple here, a couple there and boom, the final tally is running into hundreds of dollars. Try to keep your budget in mind as you pick things off the racks. Before approaching the checkout counter, make sure to take a final look at every item in your cart. Do you really need or want them? Make room for some flexibility though. Who knows, you could find pieces that could revamp your entire style!

Dress and Prep mentally for the occasion

Shopping at used-clothes stores takes a lot of patience, stamina and the will to keep going after drawing a blank for an hour or even more. Wear snug, comfortable clothing if possible. This is so you can try on clothing right there in the aisle, as most thrift stores don’t have fitting rooms. Shorts and a t-shirt are perfect, well if the weather permits. Once I saw this lady wearing a leotard(true story!)



Buddy up!

How about thrifting a day out with friends?! The more the merrier! Dragging a friend out to shop with you is simultaneously fun and quite sage. They'll help you trim the fat, and a second or third opinion never hurts, right? Well in most cases. Sometimes our friends could be our biggest foes when it comes to finances. Make sure you go with someone who you consider a little more prudent than you. If you're looking to spend no more than a certain amount, you don't want to be pressured into buying more stuff just because your friend is flashing all the cash.

Buying pre-loved clothing is one of the main ways you can help the planet and build a beautiful closet filled with unique items. Happy Hunting eco warrior!