Ten (10) Secrets of a Thrift Store Addict

At this point if you have been following the blog, you know that there has been a thrift theme. Following up on my previous posts I would like to share with you my top ten (10 ) Tips on getting the most from the thrift store. I am a firm believer in saving money but I am also a firm believer in looking good and feeling GREAT. That being said, I am always on the lookout for ways to incorporate both savings and fabulousness. The thrift store is the answer. Ladies and gents, if you haven’t done it before, here is a guide for your first trip. If you have been a thrift store junky but need a few tips on how to get the most out of the trip, I share with you my top ten (10) shopping secrets. Following that I will show you a few of the fab pieces I purchased from Value Village for next to nothing.

1. Location, location, location- get to know your neighbourhood, the demographics, the types of people who live there. This will give you a good idea as to the type and quality of clothes you will likely find. Not a fool proof method, but 8 times out of ten, it works. I find a lot of really nice pieces in upscale neighbourhoods or neighbourhoods where there is a high senior population ( shall we say vintage baby?).

2. Go with an honest friend - Sometimes we can’t see that the blazer we are trying on really makes us look like a box of Special K and the temptation of a jacket for $10.99 may entice you to buy it despite the fact that it simply is not a good fit. Your friend’s sole responsibility is to veto purchases you will regret, and to be your cheerleader when you have found that rocking piece that will guarantee that you look expensive.

3. It should make you look expensive- Huh? What does that even mean you ask. It means when you wear the garment you should look and act like a gazillion bucks. You get what I’m saying?! It should cause you to immediately feel confident and assured, not just meh. No matter who is watching…you know that you look FOXY or DAPPER! Also, designer garms are a must. If you see a designer item that is of high quality, it is in your optimal colour and an excellent  fit…you must not leave the store without it. Get to know designer labels and shop for them at discount prices. This is a sure way to look expensive without putting a hole in your pocket.

4. Watch out for defects- A jacket could be so nice because it fits you perfectly or that pair of boots you saw just completes that perfect look you have envisioned in your head. One minor problem, there is a huge hole in either of them. Some defects can be repaired. That is why it is so good to have a reliable tailor, jewellery repair specialist and shoe cobbler. Other defects are not worth the pain. If the fabric pills or has noticeable holes in the middle of the garment, this is not a good sign. Buttons can be replaced, edges can be sewn, hems can be cut but really significant tears or stains on clothing should be passed up.

5. Go Natural: Avoid synthetic and man made fibres such as rayon, acrylic, viscose, polyester,  nylon and God forbid…pleather (fake plastic like leather) . Please no pleather.  These fibres are of a lower quality and if they have been worn and washed previously they can look tattered pretty quickly. Instead opt for rich luxurious fabrics made of cashmere, wool, genuine leather, silk, high quality cotton with high thread counts, animal hairs and skin and dare I say it…fur. Yes, fur is hot. P.E.T.A will not agree and parts of me doesn’t either but you know what if you find that piece that works for you, repent and wear it. Faux fur is another guilt less alternative. Not as luxurious to the touch but can sometimes look very nice.

6. Scented with Mold is never a good look: If it is moldy, smells moldy or very old, continue skipping down the yellow brick road! That’s right. Most thrift retailers would avoid putting items like this on the shelf; however, there are times when that one just gets a way. If it did get away and you happened to come across it, you know exactly what to do…keep it moving.

7. Shoes: Many thrift stores, especially Value Village carry new and gently used items. If you are planning on buying shoes inspect them carefully and ensure that they are either new or lightly used. If they are used or even if they are new get a hold of disinfectant prior to wearing them and clean the inner shoe thoroughly. You do not wish to assume anyone’s foot illness. So hygiene is priority #1. I would never pass up shoes entirely because there are some really unique pieces that usually land in the thrift store bins. Ever heard of buyers regret? Well, there are many people who suffer from this illness and the only thing that they see as an option is to give it away. Yayy for you, that’s when you get lucky.

8. Jewellery: Another great thrift store buy is jewellery. Whether it be necklaces, earrings, rings etc. Find unique one of a kind pieces. Sterling silver, gold, rich metals, natural stones (quartz, jade, rubies), Ivory. Select jewellery made of the most luxurious  Look closely at the latches and clasps to ensure that they actually work. If there are signs of rotting metal (blue, green or rust) then that usually is an indication that it does not have much life left and should probably be passed up. The same rules that apply to shoes, apply to jewellery. Alcohol is your best friend in this case. Wipe everything down with alcohol to be on the safe side.

9. Jackets: This is the first section that every self respecting stylish individual must visit upon entering a thrift store. There are jewels I tell you, jewels. Whether it be a vintage leather trench or a rockin’ fur cape, a perfect motorcycle jacket for the gents you can get real bang for your buck if you find the right item.

10. Undergarments: I think this should be obvious but maybe it’s not because they are actually sold in thrift stores…let’s just keep it movin’. I would not take the chance on wearing someone else’s used undergarments. I imagine that most thrift retailers would only sell what is tagged as new; however, unless it is in a sealed package, I would not encourage anyone to take the risk. My 5 cents. Leaving it at that.

Last but certainly not least, whatever you choose to purchase at the thrift store go with a plan. Know what your wardrobe needs and head out there looking for those specific items. Also, understand colours that make you sparkle and clothes that flatter your body type. These are critical elements of building a stylish wardrobe that is true to you. Once purchased, ensure that you give everything a good wash and/or dry clean. Read labels carefully to ensure you are giving it the best care it deserves. Hygiene is priority #1. All the best in your thrift adventures. I would love to hear how it goes. Feel free to share your comments if you have ever gone thrift shopping or would love to in the near future.

Now, just a sneak peak of some of the pieces I picked up. I also got a rocking brown/burgundy full length trench coat that screams LA chic, premium denim, a couple of merino wool sweaters, sheath dresses and a pleather coat (holding my head down in shame…I know I told you not to do it didn’t I? Well this one I couldn’t resist. *Slaps hand*.)  To the folks that snicker at my sparkly shoes and my high waisted leather shorts…I love ‘em. They make me feel like a Gazillion bucks. haha. Thanks for reading.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of all the items I purchased, my fav are my fancy sparkly a wee bit gaudy sequin slippers…and I lub ‘em.

 

 

Sneak peek of Next weeks blog theme: 5 days of Fall Fashion…come back soon.