Shopping at thrift stores is one of my favorite things to do!
We live in a time where the planet’s resources are being used almost twice as fast as they can be replenished, according to a report from The Guardian. Plus, once clothing is thrown away, more than 85%of it will end up in a landfill or an incinerator, and 60% of that will never decompose since clothing is often made of synthetic fibers, according to a report from The New York Post.
In a world with so much textile waste, thrifting is essential for a sustainable closet – and it’s good for your wallet! Around 75% of my wardrobe is second-hand, so I have some tips on how to take your thrifting skills to the next level!
1. BE INTENTIONAL
Keep a list of specific items, colors and textures to look out for while shopping. Of course, it’s OK to deviate from that list, but it can be easy to become enchanted with the low prices.
Shopping intentionally will save you from buying clothes only to realize later that an item isn’t as great as you thought.
2. ALWAYS TRY CLOTHES ON OR MEASURE
Trying on clothes is a must! Companies size differently, and old items could have shrunk or stretched. Vintage clothing tends to run small.
To go thrifting, wear something easy to take on and off. For stores without dressing rooms, wear tight clothing – leggings, bicycle shorts, tank tops – so you can try clothes on over what you’re wearing.
You can also bring a sewing tape measure or measure yourself before leaving home! Use a marker to make measurements on your arm. Take a pair of jeans, for example, that already fit, and mark your arm to indicate the length of the waistband; you can then compare that mark to pants at the thrift store!
3. CHECK THE TAGS
Always check the tags – and not just for sizing. The brand of an item is important as thrift stores are becoming saturated with fast fashion. Do a quick internet search for brands you don’t recognize.
Check the tags for cleaning instructions. If an item is dry clean only, know that washing the piece in a machine can ruin the fabric and bring out years of smells! Ask yourself if the care required for the item is worth it.
4. VARY WHEN AND WHERE YOU SHOP
Stores in wealthier areas tend to have higher-quality items! Also, shopping in the middle of the week, instead of just the weekend, increases your chances of seeing new stock before everyone else.
5. LOOK AT EVERYTHING
Go thrifting as often as possible, and look at as much as you can. I recommend going hanger by hanger if you have the time. Going often will help familiarize you with the weekly sales most stores have. Additionally, thrift stores can be unorganized, so the greatest find of all time could be in the wrong section.
Ultimately, thrifting is about having a good time while helping the environment! You won’t always find something at a thrift store, and that’s OK! These tips will help you build the thrifted closet of your dreams! Be patient, and have fun!
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