Purchasing used goods is essentially what thrifting is. These things can include everything from apparel to furniture. There are many possibilities while thrifting, especially currently, and the likelihood that you will find the item you seek in a thrift store is very high.
Without question, fashion is a form of art. Creativity and talent are essential components of the fashion industry, from the designer to the seamstress to the stylist.
Unfortunately, it’s also a huge sector with a tonne of baggage. And even that is an understatement. Most fashion enthusiasts I know, including myself, struggle with how much garbage it generates.
I’ve tried to alter my shopping habits as a fashion enthusiast and professional to lessen the garbage I produce.
Reusing stuff from my closet, learning to sew, and maintaining my clothing have been some of the most crucial and difficult things I’ve done to cut back on my shopping.
But saving money is not simple. When it comes to vintage clothing, it is more expensive than quick fashion and takes up a lot of time that most people don’t have.
Additionally, the sheer number of racks and clothing options might overwhelm anyone before they even begin.
Today I want to give you some advice on how to thrift like a pro and show you some of the best finds I’ve made so you can understand that secondhand might be the source of your next priceless acquisition.
MAKE A LIST
Making a list of the things you need and concentrating only on those racks or sections at the store (in person or online) will help you avoid wasting time.
PUT ASIDE THE SIZES AND TAKE A MEASUREMENT
Standard sizes vary from retailer to retailer and, as I discovered while thrifting, from decade to decade. Put your measuring tape to use and disregard the labels. Look for the item’s real measurements while shopping online, or if possible, request that the seller measure it for you.
SHOP FOR BASICS
Many websites and people will advise you to start by purchasing some basic clothing, such as black or white sweaters or white shirts. However, you might already possess those fundamentals or they might not fit your personal style. What is it that you require for your closet? Find YOUR foundational pieces, such as a stylish blazer, a scarlet sweater or a pair of brown pants.
STAY AWAY FROM FAST-FASHION ITEMS
The issue with these products being used is that they most likely won’t last for an extended period of time. Of course, the best method to determine whether anything is worth buying is to look at the textiles it’s made of and the way it fits and is cut.
QUALITY OVER QUANTITY
Put an emphasis on well-made, well-cut clothing. These kinds of products are probably in better form and will likely last a very long period. It can take a while to find everything on your list, but the effort will be worthwhile in the end.
CONSIDER SMALL ADJUSTMENTS
It’s simple to become mired in the details at times. Perhaps you found a cardigan you adore, but you don’t really like the buttons. or a lovely garment that is excessively long. I’d advise keeping hold of that secondhand item that’s “almost perfect” and making a few minor tweaks to make it ideal for you.
ALSO, READ- How to style for the occasion
ITEMS OF INTEREST ARE DOUBLE-EDGED SWORDS.
It’s easy to get caught down in the details every now and again. Maybe you discovered a cardigan you adore, but the buttons aren’t exactly your thing. or an attractive outfit that is too long. I would suggest holding onto that used item that is “almost perfect” and making a few small adjustments to make it perfect for you.
BE SURE YOU ARE IN A MOOD
It practically goes without saying, but if you’re not up to the task on the designated day, postpone it. If you don’t want to go before you start, you’ll set yourself up for failure.
SET A BUDGET
This is especially true for curated vintage stores, which demand greater prices than charity shops, but it’s crucial to set a limit for yourself so you don’t overspend. Just because the things are inexpensive in comparison does not imply you may go crazy.
WEAR SOMETHING THAT IS EASY TO CHANGE
Because you’ll be doing a lot of it, thrifting attire should be comfortable, with shoes that aren’t too difficult to put on and take off. Some establishments lack changing rooms, so be prepared to change on the shop floor if necessary. Wearing form-fitting undergarments beneath your clothes, such as a tank and shorts, can keep you calm if you need to strip down in a store corner.
LOOK FOR ITEMS THAT ARE NOT IN SEASON
They’re often cheaper, and you’re more likely to find a fantastic winter piece when everyone else is thrifting summer outfits, and vice versa.
CHECK THE STORE IF ITS YOUR VIBE OR NOT
Some stores cater to a specific type of style, which will become evident as you browse the selection. If you start to get the impression that this isn’t your vibe, it will save you time and energy to move on before you exhaust yourself by browsing through everything.
