Thrifting 101

How to do it, where to do it and why you should do it.

First let's talk about why you should thrift. What many don't realize is that buying clothes second hand is actually very environmentally friendly. By buying used clothes, you are not paying for the production of a new item. Clothes are generally produced in a factory requiring large amounts of energy and the release of toxins into the environment. If helping the environment is not motivating enough to thrift, another reason to buy recycled clothing is because many thrift stores  directly benefit people in need. Stores like The Salvation Army and Goodwill provide funds to the disabled and unemployed. The reason most people get into thrifting is the deeply discounted items as well as the joy of having unique pieces that can't be found in every Forever 21, Urban Outfitters or Brandy Melville. Thrifting is an all around positive choice as you can look cute, spend less, and feel good about where your dollar is going. 

Here are a few tips to make your thrifting experience easier and more efficient. 

1) Pick a muse.

Fashion is an art form and artists love to have a muse. Try picking a person, time period or even just a word to set the basis for the style of items you're looking for. Who or what are you inspired by? Uma Thurman in Pulp Fiction? The 70s? The 90s? Maybe you would just like to channel an "earthy" or "beachy" or "preppy" look. Whatever the case, shopping is always easier when you have an idea of the style of clothing you're looking for especially when shopping at stores which are essentially made of other people's rubbish. 

2) Buy what you love not what you like.

Don't let the cheaper prices fool you. If that shirt is a little too small or the strap on that dress is broken, don't buy it. Treat a thrift store the way you would treat any retail store because if you don't love it in the store you won't wear it — even if it was only $3 — that is money you could have used on something that you did love. 

3) Take your time. 

Thrift stores are usually large and require patience and determination in order to pick through the racks of ugly clothes in order to find that one amazing piece. Block out an entire day so you are in no rush and can take your time going through each section. I often find the best pieces are hidden in the most unexpected places, for example, the little boy's section is a surprisingly good place to find t-shirts which can be used as cute crop tops, and the men's outerwear section usually has the best jackets and windbreakers. 

4) Location matters.

Not all thrift stores are created equal. A Goodwill in one neighborhood may foster countless treasures, while one just a few miles away may seem completely barren. Through trial and error, I have mapped out the best second hand stores in my city and many of the shops seem to be located in wealthier areas. Rich people tend to donate high quality items. It seems like a no brainer, but the location of a store is not usually the first thing people look into. 

Here are some looks for your thrifting inspiration.