“Thrift shopping without a clear goal is like grocery shopping on an empty stomach. It’s doable but it’s not ideal.”
Source: Pinterest
Thrift stores are having a moment. Pre-loved clothing is being given a second chance at life by an increasing number of individuals, and for good reason. Not only can wonderful quality clothes be purchased for too-good-to-be-true prices, but we're also keeping still-wearable garments out of landfills by buying secondhand. Plus, Who doesn't appreciate a good thrift store find? While thrift shopping may not come easy to everyone, it doesn't mean you can't acquire thrift store shopping tactics to constantly find stylish bargains and steals at your local thrift store. Here are some tips and tricks to thrift shop like a pro;
TIP #1 Make a Plan:
Make a mental list of the items you want based on what you already have. This will definitely be useful and on budget. Save photos of prized treasures and fashion ideas on your phone as well for easy access. This will make it easier for store workers to assist you in finding certain garments or to tell you if they have anything similar on the shelves.
TIP #2 Get notified by your favourite Instagram Thrift Store
Follow your favourite thrift stores on Instagram and turn on their post notification so that you get notified whenever they upload a new item. Grab the item you like as fast as you can as it might not be available later.
TIP #3 Shop with cash only to avoid impulse buys
Bring cash when you go thrift shopping to keep on budget. While it's easy to get caught up in the "but it's so cheap" trap, remember to stay true to your values. Purchase only the items you require and that complement your existing wardrobe. You'll come across some interesting and lovely items, but if they're not your style, you won't wear them. So admire them from afar, snap a photo if you have to, but don't bring them home.
TIP #4 Save your time by scanning the racks
It's not for the faint of heart to rummage through many piles and racks of clothing. Depending on the size of the thrift store you visit, looking at every single item will take an eternity. You must learn the skill of scanning to minimize wasting time and missing out on prospective gems. Make your way through the store, scanning each rack for things that stick out and capture your eye, based on what you're looking for and your desired colour palette and style. This requires concentration and is a skill that you will master over time. Practise makes perfect.
TIP #5 Inspect the item before buying
Make sure you examine each piece as you shop to avoid discovering defects too late. In the midst of the shopping excitement, it's easy to overlook a small hole here or a stain there, so take your time inspecting your purchases before completing a purchase. You can avoid a unnecessary heartbreak by not skipping this step.
TIP #6 Donate your old clothes before buying more
Review your closet inventory and filter out stuff you no longer wear for donation to the thrift store before you go thrift shopping. Donating right away is not just excellent thrift karma, but cleaning out your closet will generate mental notes of what you really need to thrift for.
TIP #7 Tailor your Thrift store finds
Every item in your closet should fit you like a glove, whether it's new, thrifted, or vintage. You may need to make alterations to pre-loved things because they are often one-of-a-kind. You can also go to the dry cleaners with your thrifted clothing. You'll need to go see a tailor for more detailed customisation, so make sure the garment is worth the money before you buy it.
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