5 Tips to help you Thrift
Hello Friends!
I know it has been a little while since my last blog post; however, I spent a decent amount of the summer in Europe on a study abroad with Fort Lewis College. It was an absolute dream. We stayed in Strasbourg, France, and spent most of our weekdays studying. On the weekends, (most of which were three or four days) we got to go anywhere we wanted. While there I visited Bruges, Belgium; Albenga, Italy; Paris, France; Interlaken, Switzerland; and Antibes, France. All of which were beautiful cities in their own ways. If there is one thing that I learned while over there it is “If you have wanted to travel around Europe, but have been putting it off, don’t. It is worth all of the time, money, and energy to get over there and it is unforgettable.”
Enough about my trip; let’s get to thrifting!
I love thrifting! However, it is a recent discovery. Growing up the only time we went to thrift stores was to find an ugly Christmas sweater during the holidays. It just wasn’t that popular back then (at least that I knew of) and not in my area of Oklahoma (again at least not in my community). Once I got to Durango it seemed like everyone thrifted ALL THE TIME. So naturally, I gave it a shot and I haven’t regretted it. I love thrifting for many reasons, but three come to mind.
It is good for the environment- It is very obvious that our earth is struggling under the weight of our demanding, fast-paced culture. Fashion and home goods contribute to that heavy load. It is estimated that 85% of US textiles end up in the garbage according to the BBC. The BBC also said, “And globally, an estimated 92 million tonnes of textiles waste is created each year and the equivalent to a rubbish truck full of clothes ends up on landfill sites every second.” So it is pretty obvious that if there is any way we as individuals can cut down on the amount of #fastfashion we consume the more we can help ease mother nature’s load.
It is good for your bank account- Thrifting is super helpful if you like to switch up your look (or just like new-to-you clothes) without leaving your wallet empty. Many of the pieces that I have found have been under $10. This is also really helpful when decorating a house or apartment because you are not tied to expensive pieces that you might not like in a couple of years.
It makes clothes/items more interesting- I always find it more appealing when an item looks like it has character. Our lives are so saturated with new things that nothing has any character or history. On the other hand, when you thrift something you know that it has a history with it. For example, the other day I bought a bag of yarn, and in it were several patterns that the previous owner had printed off. On a couple were hand-written notes in beautiful, loopy script. One even had a recipe. You would never find a new ball of yarn with a recipe attached.
Here is the recipe. If you try it out, let me know how it is.
Now that I have talked about the importance of thrifting, let’s jump into the 5 tips to help you when you’re thrifting!
Look for textures-
If you are on the hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces look for textures. Often times the generic pieces will have generic, smooth textures. Whereas cool tops and jackets will have more texture like denim or velvet. Perhaps look for textures in the details such as embroidery or rouche detailing. Plus straps, elastic, and rouche provide altering of the clothes so you can make them fit you better.
2. Look in different sections-
Whether you are looking for clothing or home decor items don’t be afraid to look in different sections, especially with clothes. If you are female, don’t be afraid to check out the men’s section because that is usually where I find my favorite oversized shirts and jackets. If you are a smaller person don’t be afraid to browse around the kid’s section. I know this one is a little weirder and feel embarrassing but there can be some treasures there as well. For example, small, stretchy tank tops and crop tops.
3. Keep a look out for sales-
Sales can make thrifting even better and cheaper than it already is. I got a “Life is Good” brand t-shirt for $2.99 because of a sale and I wear that shirt ALL the time. One way to know about sales is to follow the store on social media. Another way to ask an employee if they have a regular system for the sales and that way you can keep track of what goes on sale and when.
4. LOOK AT EVERY SHELF-
Let me say that one more time, “LOOK AT EVERY SHELF”. This is especially true in the dish and cup aisles. So many times I have found amazing pieces on the bottom shelf in a box. Everyone just sticks to the aisle right in front of their face and misses out on beautiful pieces. This also rings true when it comes to trying to buy a matching set. I have figured out (after many attempts to find a complete set) that many times similar dishes are not placed next to each other. I am not sure how they always seem to migrate away from each other but many times they aren’t even on the same shelf.
5. Go thrifting with friends-
Many times a group of friends and I will go thrifting. Sometimes more laughing at awful clothing happens than finding treasures. However, every once in a while a friend will bring me a piece and say “this looks like something you would wear” and it is something I never would have even thought about wearing, but after looking at it I fall in love. Friends often have different perspectives and see things we would have looked over. Some of my favorite pieces have been picked out by friends.
Okay, Friends. That is all of my tips right now for thrifting, so get out there and find some treasures! If you post about it on social media don’t forget to tag me or just message me on Instagram and TikTok. Also, don’t get down on yourself if you don’t find anything; there have been so many times that I have left a thrift shop empty-handed. Go have fun!
Blessings,
Lexi
