Everyone loves scoring a great deal at the mall. But as trends come and go, the best deals are no longer being found at commercial retailers. Authentic vintage apparel, as well as tons of other unique pieces, is available at secondhand shops for a fraction of modern-day prices. However, the idea of thrifting can be overwhelming; searching rack after rack of clothes for only the chance of encountering something desirable doesn’t sound like the most enjoyable way to spend a Saturday afternoon. However, with the right mindset, secondhand shopping can definitely be a valuable experience. Here are 5 tips for the best thrifting experience:
1) DO Dress Accordingly
Most thrift stores do not have changing rooms, so an elaborate ensemble isn’t practical for this kind of shopping. Instead, opt for a simple tank and spandex shorts or pants (like you would wear for exercise), so you can easily slip other items over them. A zip-up and slip-on shoes will keep you warm, and are easy to take on and off. Any fuss-free hairstyle and make-up will work best while thrifting — taking clothes on and off throughout the day will disturb any prior primping. As a general, final note, you will be spending a lot of time on your feet, so comfort is definitely key here!
2) DON’T Leave Anything Behind
Thrift stores are not like normal retailers — they don’t carry duplicates of the same garment. If you like something, even if you’re unsure about it, keep it with you until you make a final decision. It’s better to be safe than wish you hadn’t set something down.
3) DO Eat Before You Shop
This analogy may seem silly, but shopping is a lot like the SATs: an empty stomach will leave you feeling cranky and frustrated. Eat a balanced breakfast and then bring a reliable snack along. I know it’s cliché, but our bodies preform so much better when we are well-fed.
4) DON’T Lose Patience
I wouldn’t own some of my favorite pieces if I hadn’t tried them on in the store initially. A funky garment may not match your style on a hanger, but after modeling it, there is a definite chance you’ll have a change of heart! Stepping out of our comfort zone keeps us growing not only as fashionistas, but as human beings, so keep an open mind and you will become a more successful shopper. Thrifting is a tedious task that requires tons of patience, so a positive and relaxed attitude is necessary throughout your shopping experience. As I explained earlier, thrift stores are overwhelming to most people, so don’t try to conquer the whole place at once. Thoroughly exploring the store is hard work, but is better than leaving feeling rushed and unsatisfied.
5) DO Wash Your Purchases
These garments are new to you, but they are old to someone else; while you may be eager to rock them immediately, they need to be washed or dry cleaned first. The fabrics used in clothing are known to carry lice, dust, and other allergens, so it’s in your best interest to take these precautions.
Happy thrifting!
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