Whenever I have a simple, no-plans sort of day, I jump at the chance to go thrifting. The thrill of the hunt gets me giddy with excitement, but I know there's a lot of you who lack my enthusiasm. It can be an overwhelming experience, and there are times when I leave with nothing but an urgency to wash my hands in Purell. My hope is that some of my tips will help the next time you give it a go.
Look for color trends
It's easy to get lost in endless racks of clothing, but pinpoint a few colors you know are on-trend, classics, or lacking in your closet. Most stores organize by color, so use that to your advantage.
Example: During my last trip, I left with some camel trousers, a blush pink cardigan and silk button-up. Color success!
Know the return policy
Take the extra step to ask if your items are eligible for return at the checkout. Don't get bogged down with questions like "Will this work in my space? "Do I have a shoe to pair with this?" Take it home with you, and see if it fits with your decor or completes an outfit.
Trust your instincts
It caught your eye for a reason, so go with it!
Tailoring is key
My experience goes to show that 7 times out of 10, I have to make an alteration. Whether it's bringing in a waistband, raising a hemline, replacing some ugly buttons, or removing some shoulder pads, take the time to add those finishing touches for an updated and polished look.
Look for color trends
It's easy to get lost in endless racks of clothing, but pinpoint a few colors you know are on-trend, classics, or lacking in your closet. Most stores organize by color, so use that to your advantage.
Example: During my last trip, I left with some camel trousers, a blush pink cardigan and silk button-up. Color success!
Know the return policy
Take the extra step to ask if your items are eligible for return at the checkout. Don't get bogged down with questions like "Will this work in my space? "Do I have a shoe to pair with this?" Take it home with you, and see if it fits with your decor or completes an outfit.
Trust your instincts
It caught your eye for a reason, so go with it!
Tailoring is key
My experience goes to show that 7 times out of 10, I have to make an alteration. Whether it's bringing in a waistband, raising a hemline, replacing some ugly buttons, or removing some shoulder pads, take the time to add those finishing touches for an updated and polished look.
(image via flickr)
I love these tips -- it's vital to know what you're looking for when thrifting! My best tip is to check out the kids' section; old boy's school uniform shirts and blazers can be such fantastic finds!
ReplyDeletexo Josie
http://winksmilestyle.blogspot.com
I would totally agree with the "trust your instincts"! Great tips! What is your favorite piece you've ever found?
ReplyDeletexx Vivian @ http://diamondsandtulle.blogspot.com
Thanks for the tips! I really want to start learning how to thrift (or even where to in my area) so this was great to read!
ReplyDeleteVivian- Great question! Clothing wise I would say a fitted, brown tweed blazer with slight puffed shoulders. The home decor route I would say these 2 metal trunks I found. They now have a permanent home below my window sill in my bedroom. I featured them in my "Goodwill Ambassador" post!
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