Upon entering some thrift shops it is not hard to understand why some people turn their noses up at them and even turn up their noses at the thought of them. But as a person who has spent many years perusing the selection at various thrift stores not just in the community I live in but in other towns and cities as well, I can tell you that many of these shops are worth a second look and indeed a closer look. They are not all filled with junk that other people have discarded.
When money is tight-and let’s face it, when isn’t it?- looking for clothing that is new to you offers a means of adding to your wardrobe without spending too much of your hard earned cash. Here are some tips to help you when you decide it is time to do some thrift store exploring:
One. You may decide to visit one thrift store or many but you must be prepared for the fact that they are not arranged in the same manner as your retail clothing stores. Plan your shopping trip on a day when you actually have the time to look around. It will take you some time to sort through the racks of clothes or to look through bins. Not every thrift store displays its clothing choices in the same manner so bringing your patience and your energy will make your trip much more of a success and a great deal more enjoyable!
Two. Speaking of enjoyable, why go it alone? Bring a loved one or friend along with you to browse. That way you can catch up on what is going on with each other’s lives and you can wile away the day together shopping. It also helps to get another person’s objective opinion on a garment that has caught your eye.
Three. Know what items you have in your wardrobe and look for pieces that will coordinate well with what you already have. If you want to buy a complete outfit that is up to you but mixing and matching is often the way to go. For instance you may like the look of that bright orange sweater but if you are limited in the separates that you can wear with it then it is a garment that probably will not see a lot of wear.
Four. Just because it is a second-hand clothing store does not mean that you should accept substandard conditions in the clothing it sells. Stay away from clothing that is outdated, needs a lot of work or looks like it has seen better days. Try to find the newest pieces and the pieces have been treated with TLC amongst the apparel that the shop sells.
Five. When you find a thrift store that appeals to you put it on your list as a frequent store to visit. The inventory at thrift clothing stores can change fairly often and if you go often enough then you will be the one taking home the most valuable merchandise.
Six. Some thrift stores have sales and special deals on occasion. If you are there regularly then you will be privy to the specials. This will further help you to save money on your clothing budget.
Seven. Search out the thrift stores that are in out of the way places as opposed to those that are in high traffic areas. The merchandise will be less picked over in these places and the prices might even be lower.
Eight. Find out if the thrift store will allow you to exchange your unwanted garments for credit. If they do not then find out if they accept donations. Some stores will offer you a coupon such as $5.00 off purchases that are $25.00 or more when you donate to their store. If not then at least get a receipt and you can claim the donation on your tax return.
Enjoy your thrift store adventures!
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