5 Quick Thrifting Tips
5 Quick Thrifting Tips
By: Briley Rakow
With the fashion world focusing on sustainability, thrift stores, consignment shops, and flea markets have become some of the trendiest places to shop. There’s nothing quite like finding the perfect thrifted piece to add to your wardrobe, and it’s a great way to stay on-trend without breaking the bank. As fun as thrifting is, it can be hard if you don’t know the right places to look, which is why we’ve curated some tips and tricks to help you efficiently find pieces you love.
Start in the Men’s Section
More often than not, the majority of name-brand clothing will be found in the men’s section. Menswear silhouettes are being seen more and more in women’s fashion, so if you want to find pieces that fit into the oversized trend, this is definitely the place to look. There are plenty of men’s sizes that will fit deceptively well, so don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try on everything from men’s t-shirts to jeans.
Never Be Afraid to Try It On
Most thrift stores have fitting rooms, and you should definitely use them when given the opportunity. If something looks remotely interesting to you, try it on. When it comes to thrifting, you really never know which piece will end up being your future go-to. Sometimes, a large men’s sweater looks too big, but you realize it’s the perfect sweater dress when you try it on. I’ve found this is especially true when it comes to pants because sometimes, even if it’s a brand you recognize, the sizes may have slightly changed since the particular style you find has come out.
Look at Every Piece
I know that when you walk into a thrift store, the idea of looking at every piece can be daunting, especially considered not every thrift store is well-organized. However, if you want to find the best pieces, it is so important to spend a decent amount of time really searching through everything. Thrift stores aren’t organized like regular stores where the best pieces are pulled out and put on display, so if you don’t look through everything, you just might miss them.
Don’t Shy from D.I.Y.
Many pieces you find in thrift stores might not fit perfectly when you try them on, but plenty of them would be perfect if you got artistic at home. Whether that means cropping a t-shirt or painting on an older pair of jeans, there are lots of ways to add some flair to basic pieces you find at thrift stores. Not to mention, if you have any fun DIY ideas you want to try, thrifting is a great way to find the pieces for a great price.
Try Online Thrifting
If you’re not finding the pieces you’re looking for at the local thrift stores, try online thrifting on websites like ThredUp, Depop, or Poshmark. They all have thousands of pieces to choose from and will ship right to your door for a much more laid-back thrifting experience. And, if you end up buying too much, you can always try selling any of the pieces you don’t wear anymore to your fellow thrifters on the same websites.
Finding thrifted pieces you love may seem easier said than done, but if you use these tips, the process will be efficient and enjoyable. Take your time, step out of your comfort zone, and you just might find your next go-to outfit along the way.
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Photos provided by Briley Rakow and Elena Ossoski.