This week we're breaking it up a little bit to talk about thrifting tips and tricks! Lately, I've noticed that I've been receiving a lot of compliments on things I've worn that were purchased from a thrift store. I've also found that it's a lot of fun to see someone's surprised reaction when I tell them that I bought it used, at a thrift shop. Usually, they are shocked and tell me that they never find anything cute at the thrift store which, in turn, surprises me!
Today, I am going to break down a few things that I've learned since becoming an avid thrift shopper to help you find thrift shopping success! All it takes is a little patience and a bit of organization. But first, we need to determine, what exactly is a thrift store?
Thrift stores are typically non-profit stores that base their inventory on donations received. These donations are items that people have in their home that they no longer want or need. Most of the time, a percentage of the profit is given to a specific cause or invested back into the community. For instance, Goodwill Industries offers a variety of programs to improve access to education, and employment. What a plus!
Now that we've determined what a thrift store is, let's get moving onto those tips and tricks!
Sample, Sample, Sample:
To find a really good thrift shop, it's important to sample a variety of thrift stores (if possible) because each one is so unique in their inventory, what they consistently sell, and in affordability. My favorite thrift stores always change with my wants and needs. Currently, I have three favorite thrift stores and each one offers something that the other doesn't.
Maximize your Savings:
Thrift stores usually offer additional discounts, coupons, and savings. Things you should look for (or ask about) are:
- Colored Tag Sales: The first week the colored tags are usually 50% off and the following week they can discount to $.99-1.99.
- Bag Sales: Some will have sales where you can fill a bag with as much clothing as possible for $2-5.
- Student, Military, and Senior Discounts: Stores offer 10-20% off your total on select days for students, military members and dependents, as well as seniors.
- Reward Programs: Some offer points/rewards for shopping with them.
- Donation Coupons/Discounts: Stores also offer coupons and addititonal discounts to rewards those donating their old items.
- Social Media Coupons/Discounts: Some also offer consistent or flash coupons and discounts on their social media page. Even if you don't follow them, make sure you take a look on their social media to access these additional deals.
- Holidays and Special Events: Sometimes, select items will be 30-50% off for a holiday sale or special event.
Is it Worth it:
Most of the time, you can compare prices of the items you find by looking them up online which helps determine if it's a good deal. You can also look inside a clothing item and underneath the cleaning directions tag on the right of the garment, it's also date stamped by month (or season) and year. This lets you know if the item is newer or not. Electronic items can also be tested in the store. If you're still unsure, ask a sales associate about their return and exchange policy.
The Early Bird Catches the Worm:
If possible, go early. I've had a lot of success finding things early in the morning right after they've opened. This is how I found the awesome desk that I upcycled! Holiday/Special Event days are usually crazy and packed so you'll want to get there early on those days.
Go Frequently:
Inventory is unique and usually one of a kind so you'll want to drop by occasionally to see what has changed. If you're looking for very specific items, ask a staff member when they refill certain sections of the store to know which day or day(s) to stop by.
That's it for these tips and tricks! I really hope that they will help you score awesome finds on your next thrifting adventure. Please let me know if and how they helped you! Scroll on to catch a glimpse of any upcoming refashion. Can you guess which one it is!?
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