A Foolproof Guide to Making Your Next Thrifting Trip Successful

April 3, 2021 / 30 Comments

5 Tips to a Successful Thrifting Experience

*This is contributed content.

Sustainability is the new buzzword in the fashion world. However, successful sustainability can be difficult to attain when shopping from mainstream retailers. Especially those in the fast fashion sector. Not only do they lack in unique styles, but it is hard to discern brands that are truly sustainable from those that merely say they are.

This is where thrift shopping enters as the perfect way to shop sustainably without having to engage in extensive research about each brand. Simply buying second hand clothing is a sustainable shopping method. By purchasing preloved clothing, you keep garments from making their way into landfills. In addition to the environmental benefits, thrift shops offer a variety of unique pieces that will add to your individual personality and style.

Because I am an avid thrifter, I wanted to share with you some tips on how to make your next thrifting trip successful either online and in physical stores.

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1. Know Your Measurements

If you have ever purchased clothing from more than one brand, then you are probably well aware of how much sizing can differ depending on manufacturer, designer, and individual garments. The same, of course, is true of thrifted clothing. The sizing can even differ within the same brand depending on what year it was produced. Women’s clothing sizes have changed drastically over the years as well so relying on a size tag is not always effective.

Before you start shopping, get the tape measure out and start measuring. Be thorough and take measurements of every part of your body even if you think you may not need them. It’s better to avoid a heartbreaking moment like spotting the vintage dress of your dreams and then taking your measurements only to discover it will never fit.

You can save your measurements in your cell phone for quick access while shopping. During these times when many fitting rooms are still closed, it is helpful to keep a small tape measure on hand while shopping in case you need to measure the garment for fit. When in doubt, size up, not down. It is much easier to take clothes in than it is to take them out.

2. Set a Budget

If vintage is your jam, it might be difficult to refrain from buying everything in a store or online shop that is filled with vintage wonders. To avoid buyer’s remorse from overindulging in vintage treasures, it is important to set a budget before you go shopping. If you are purchasing online, remember to budget the cost of your delivery as well. There is nothing that irritates me more than shipping costs taking me over budget. So it’s always good to keep a little extra cushion in your shopping budget to cover these costs.

If you are shopping for vintage items with higher prices, it can ease some buyer’s stress if you set a budget before shopping. This is particularly important if you are watching auction sites. The excitement of an auction can quickly lead you to purchasing something that you may not be able to afford.

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3. Be Open Minded

Shopping second-hand often requires a good imagination. Remain open minded when it comes to clothing that might need a little TLC especially if you are skilled in minor repairs or alterations. You can quickly give new life to an over-loved garment. When shopping online, keep in mind that many sellers photograph their clothing in their homes without professional equipment or lighting for studio worthy photos. So don’t neglect those listings, there could be some real gems masked behind a poor photo. And never hesitate to ask the seller questions about their items.

If there is a second hand item that you really want, don’t hesitate for too long because once they are sold, the chances of finding the same thing again are very slim. Product availability changes by the minute in the world of thrifting.

4. Know Return and Exchange Policies

Regardless of where you shop, whether it is resale or retail, it is important to be aware of the return and exchange policies of vendors. With thrifting, it is an essential piece in the decision making process. Many thrift shops and second hand stores do not allow returns at all so you want to be sure that the items you purchase fit you and your lifestyle.

But regardless of how diligent you are in following these tips, sometimes you will still end up buying something does not work for you. In the interest of keeping it sustainable, I recommend either donating the item back to the store or reselling it yourself.

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5. Have Fun

The most important thing about thrift shopping is the thrill of the hunt. So have fun while you are out there picking through all the wonderful discarded things. And remember that a sense of humor, a bit of patience, and some practice will take you from a novice to a master thrifter in a very short time. Happy thrifting!

Have you embraced the second hand experience yet?

Keeping it on the edge,

Shelbee

Linking up with these Fabulous Link Parties.

I am a midlife woman, wife, and stay-at-home mother of 2 boys and 2 cats. I have a passion for helping other women feel fabulous in the midst of this crazy, beautiful life.

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