10 Easy Steps for the Rookie Clothes-Thrifter
Hi friends, and happy Thursday! I’ve been searching around my area for a good thrift store to shop for clothes, and I finally found one! I LOVE thrifting now, but in the past I used to feel super overwhelmed by all of the items. I could literally spend HOURS at a thrift store, and still lack the confidence to make a single purchase for myself! My kids on the other hand…I never have trouble thrifting for my kids, haha! Nevertheless, I believe that we, “rookie thrifters,” need a strategy to help us leave the store with our heads held high, and our successful purchases in hand! I made that strategy, and I’m going to share it with you in 10 easy steps!
1. Go in with a game plan
Thrift stores are such fun places to visit, but if you really want to be successful, you have to go in with a game plan! First, evaluate what you already have in your closet, and then what you NEED. Ask yourself: Do I need tops, bottoms, dresses, accessories, shoes, outerwear, any colors in particular?, etc. It’s also super helpful to know your general sizing beforehand! (Thrifting clothes calls for multiple wardrobe changes in the dressing room, and the last thing you want is to waste precious time trying on items that aren't even close to your size!) Have a game plan, and trust me, you'll enjoy yourself so much more!
2. Know your budget
If you’re a "Spending Sally," then you are at large risk for spending way more then intended at the thrift store. Having a budget allows you the freedom to spend, while providing a limit so there’s no need for buyer’s remorse. Oh, and BRING CASH! Taking cash will further prevent you from breaking the bank.
3. Shop in an affluent area
I don't doubt wonderful treasures can be found in any area, but by shopping in a more affluent area you are upping your chances of finding better items! Don’t forget to utilize google reviews to prevent driving 45 minutes to a Goodwill store that you later find only sells “granny panties,” haha! I know...not likely, but you get the point!
4. Be “section specific”
When you walk into a crowded thrift store, the packed-in clothing racks can be staggering! Um...where do I even begin!? Repeat after me..."I only need to scan the sections that pertain to me." Tell the lovely worker what you're looking for, and focus on sifting through those areas for your item preferences, sizing and colors!
5. Check the labels
Once you’ve found your section of interest, scan through the clothing and focus on pulling quality name brands! Think about those pricier stores with the clothing you love, but maybe can’t afford on a regular basis...JCREW, MADEWELL, ANTHROPOLOGIE, BANANA REPUBLIC, LOFT, etc. In terms of fabric, search the labels for sturdy materials such as 100% cotton, wool, linen, or silk for more long lasting items! (If you hold a shirt up to the light, and are able to see right through it, it may not be the best quality.)
6. Shop comfortably
When it comes to thrifting clothes, you’ll have multiple wardrobe changes. Wear comfy loose clothing, easy slip on shoes, and the right bra for whatever you’re searching for! Don’t wear anything with buttons that you’ll need to spend time buttoning and unbuttoning as you go in and out of the dressing room. If you mean business, dress the part!
7. Check over your items
Prior to checkout, and before you get too excited about an item, be sure to thoroughly inspect each for signs of excess wear, or damage.
8. Only leave with what you love
It's not about quantity, it's about quality, so plan on only leaving with the items you truly love and can see yourself wearing time and time again!
9. Try the kid-free approach
As mamas, we don't always have the option to thrift without our kids, and I totally understand that! However, it’s important to remember that with and without kids will give you a TOTALLY different experience! Without kids will give you the freedom to search, focus, and enjoy the process, while clunky strollers and wild toddlers are a bit more restricting, and may not fit well in your dressing room. Been there, done that!
10. Ask about discounts
Next time you thrift, ask the staff if/when they give discounts, and when they put out new clothes each week? (Then you can plan you’re visit accordingly, and get the biggest bang for your buck!)
Well, my rookie thrifters, I hope this list helps you feel a little less overwhelmed next time you step foot into that trendy thrift store! If I can become a more confident thrifter, then so can you! Now, let me know what items you’re going to look for on your next thrifting spree in the comments below! Tag me on Instagram with what you bought @coolmomandcollected! I'd love to see! Happy thrifting!
Cool, Calm, and Collectedly Yours,
