Tips For Thrifting!

My all time favorite Hobby over the years has been thrifting. I was thrifting before it got popular lol. I was always so excited about the idea of making old things new and fresh again. I used to go in with about $25 and come with a least 5 or 6 items. I quickly realized that 1) I had nowhere to put all this stuff and 2) There had to be some way to sort through stuff so that I wouldn't buy every single thing I thought was cute. So here are some tips for effective thrifting

1. Just because you like it doesn't mean you have to buy it. Consider the likelihood of you actually wearing the garment. If you live in Desert, you should leave the Parka at the store. I don't care how nice it is!

2. Check out the condition. Garments with holes and stains shouldn't go home with you. Unless there's a tear in a coat's lining or something that is actually worth fixing, save yourself the trouble. 

3. Carve out time to shop. The fun part of thrifting is going in with an open mind and time to kill. If you're in a rush, stick to going to the mall. My best finds have been hiding in the crevices! 

4. Check the fit. I usually try to stay within 1-2 sizes too big when it comes to tailoring. Once the structure of a garment is compromised it can be hard to keep the same proportions. If the sleeves are 5 sizes too big, even if you change the fit of the dress, the sleeves won't look right. You get me?

5. Always clean your items when you buy them. 

6. Have a look in mind when you go into the store. Lot of times there are things that are not necessarily vintage so if there are trends you're looking for, have a clear "look" in your head. 

7. If you can, take a friend. I love having second pair of eyes. Its fun to think of outfit ideas and possible occasions for certain finds. Sometimes its good to get a "no" too. Saves you the trouble!

8. Have a budget! I usually give myself a set amount to guide my shopping. Take that amount in CASH! only carry that amount in with you. 

9. Only buy it if you LOVE it. Sometimes we buy things because they're cheap, Not because we like them. 

10. Last but not least. Don't be afraid to add your own flair to things you find. Belt it, cinch it. cut it, bedazzle it...However you choose to make the garment your own! The good thing is that its cheap so if you mess it up you won't be out of a hefty investment. 

Hope these tips help!

Below is one my favorite Thrifted finds. I found this at Salvation Army for $4.00. Added a belt and... "Voila!"