My top thrifting tips, just in time for fall/back to school shopping!
This post is in partnership with Value Village. As always, opinions are my own!
I haven’t actually been back to school in, well, a very long time but that doesn’t mean I don’t get nostalgic for this time of year. All I want to do is stock up on new sweaters, stationary, and books. As I’ve cut back on my wardrobe in the last few years (see my open concept closet), I’ve tried to be conscious about what I’m bringing into our apartment. I’m also far more aware of my consumption of fast fashion and thrifting is a great way for me to balance that. It feels like I’m doing a small part in keeping some clothing out of landfills while giving me that feeling of something new, even if it’s only new-to-me. I also often bring some clothing to donate when I visit the store, so that I am keeping my current wardrobe concise and making room for a few purchases.
To kick off an ongoing partnership with Value Village (so exciting, right?), I thought I’d share a few thrifting tips with you that I’ve picked up over the years.
1. Allow Yourself Time To Browse
This is very important when it comes to thrifting because it really requires you to patiently browse. I find it really therapeutic to sift through the rows of clothing, which also makes it extra special when I spot a gem. It’s the thrill of the hunt for me! Also, I prefer to browse as stress-free as possible and try to go to the store during the week during quieter hours.
2. Try not to focus on the size label
Part of why thrifting can be so time-consuming is because it’s helpful to look through as much as possible. I usually gravitate towards my usual size first, but then I also take a look at what they have in the sizes below, as well as above. Which means I’m scouring M, L, and XL which can take a while. I’ve found plenty of items that aren’t my “usual” size that I never would have found or tried on if I hadn’t broadened my horizons.
3. Peep the Men’s section
Pictured above is one of my favourite Value Village finds…ever! It’s a Men’s silk button-up (Club Monaco and everything) and it is exquisite. The men’s clothing section can often have some trendy sweaters, button-ups, and even jackets. Obviously most pieces will be categorized as oversized, but it’s a whole look and I adore it!
4. Shop Often
Last week, I went to my local Value Village and didn’t find anything. Went back the very next day, and riffling through the exact same racks of clothing, I found 3 items to purchase! I also like to scope out different locations. I love popping into thrift shops in smaller towns, and the suburbs for a different variety. I’d say I’ve had the most success with cool vintage and retro pieces in the locations outside of the big city.
5. Have fun with it
I try not to go into a thrift store with a ton of expectations. Of course, there’s always a wishlist, but if I march into Value Village with only one specific item in mind, say, a blue blazer, I am often closed off to finding anything else. I think it’s great to have a few things in mind (so that you don’t go too crazy spending) but to still take the time to browse each section for other items because you just never know what you might find!
Do you have any tips or tricks that you would add to this list? I would love to hear them in the comments below!
