My Thrift Tips....

I've been thrifting for about a year and half now, so I'm still [sort of] new at it. A few things I've learned so far about thrifting:

1. Go with an open mind.
   To me, this is probably the most important. At first, the only time I went to the thrift store was to buy used furniture. I never looked at the clothing and accessories section. Some people have the "only poor people buy clothing from the thrift stores" mentality and trust me, I was one of them. So, keeping and open-mind is always good, because trust me, you will find amazing pieces.

2. Go PREPARED.
    The reason this is important is because walking into a thrift store, especially a HUGE one like Goodwills and Salvation Armys, can be extremely overwhelming. What I like to do, is write out a small list of things I am specifically looking for. Like for example, a few weeks ago I was looking for chiffon button ups, and last week I was looking for for aztec prints and patterns. What that does is narrows your search, and cuts your "wandering around" time in half.

3. Check every section.
    Doesn't matter what time of the year it is, check all sections. If its the summer time, still check out the leathers and the coats. You might find something spectacular you can save for the next season. Also, ladies go ahead and check the men's section as well. I personally like wearing oversized t shirts and button ups for those lazy days, and you can find tons of those in the men's section. A small men's blazer would make a great boyfriend blazer for you.

4. "Mom" Jeans are actually GOOD!
     We all hate mom jeans as they are intended to be worn. They're baggy, mis-shapened and are not flattering at all for the "tush". However, when you cut those bad boys into shorts, roll up and cuff, they could turn into amazing high waisted shorts!!

5. Bring CASH.
    This is a funny one, and might not even apply in your own area, but most thrift stores take cash only. (Mostly the smaller privately owned ones). You dont want to go up to the register and only have your debit or credit, and they only take cash!. Its happened to me TWICE!

6. Try to go Wednesdays and Thursdays.
     In most cities, thrifts stores have BIG sales on those days. Like half off sales on certain color tags. Or half off sales on ALL clothing. You're already saving tons of money shopping thrift, nothing wrong with saving a little more.

7. HAVE FUN!!
    I have fun shopping period (because I love the smell of new merchandise) but I especially have fun thrifting.  For me, it's some what of a thrill. Almost like playing a game. The "What am I going to find today" game. You find the most unique and eclectic pieces, its like a treasure hunt if you will. I love to retail shop, dont get me wrong, but thrifting just puts a huge smile on my face.