Luxe for Less : 3 Tips for a Successful Thrifting Trip
There is no denying that vintage is having a moment right now. I’d like to think it will be more than just a moment in time but a more eco and budget friendly way to consume pieces that are trending for the season. While I love a good trend each season, I’ve mentioned before that I am being more conscious of the way that I shop and add pieces to my wardrobe. Not only for my wallets sake but also for more ease in piecing together many different outfits with minimal effort.
Fun Fact: my very first blog post ever back in the day (2012 to be exact) featured a chunky sweater that I thrifted for $6 & a pair of camouflage pants which weren’t thrifted and I have since gotten rid of because let’s be real- camo…GROSS lol I’ve definitely have made strides in my style choices since then. But, one thing I have revisited is my love for thrifting. Now, let’s be honest…the thrifting search isn’t for everyone. It takes time, patience, and having an eye for items that are unique and classic. Today I wanted to share a couple of my own personal tips in having a successful thrifting trip.
1.) Have an idea of which thrift stores in your area carry the best items: You might be under the impression that you have to live somewhere like New York or LA to really hit the thrifting jackpot. While those places do have some of the best thrift finds you can still find swoon worthy finds where you live. This for me was trial and error. I’ve found that areas of affluence give you the opportunity to score designer finds. If you’re in Charlotte 2 of my favorite places to thrift are the Value Village off of South Blvd. and the Goodwill in Pineville. I always find the best items at these 2 places. I actually found this silk top from the Goodwill in Pineville…it’s a piece that I’ve seen all of Instagram and fashion sites like Who What Wear- I only paid $4 for it and its also a great transitional piece to wear now and through Fall and Winter. Which brings me to my next point.
2.) Have a clear understanding of what it is you’re looking for: Because my job is in fashion, I’m constantly taking in fashion content whether it’s on social media or sites like Who What Wear to keep me in the know of trends and must-have items for the season. For example- oversized blazers are a trend that you will be seeing a lot of this Fall and while brands like H&M will be carrying these pieces at affordable prices- you can save even more money by finding this piece while thrifting. Most thrift stores have women’s and women’s blazers for around $8 maybe less? I’ve recently gotten some really great blazers that I’m excited to style for you guys soon. Do your research on what is trending and keep your eyes peeled- you’ll be surprised what you’ll find! Pinterest is another place to get inspiration on items to add to your wardrobe!
3.) Be Prepared to Sift: The trill of the thrift is finding treasures- it’s true! But like I said before it’s not for everyone. I like to carve out a couple of hours and just browse but not everyone has the time or patience to do so. If that’s not your thing which I totally get- there are tons of vintage shops nowadays that will do the work for you to get those unique pieces. I weirdly find it therapeutic to sift through the racks and imagine what outfits I can create with different pieces. Also, it doesn’t hurt at most of the thrift stores I go to have really bomb playlist playing while you shop.
Hopefully those tips are helpful for the next time you decide you want to thrift but are overwhelmed by the idea of it! Be safe by wearing your mask & stay six feet apart while doing so and wash/dry clean your items right when you get home!
xoxo,
Shaunie
