By Patricia Rocha
News Editor
I think thrift stores are the only places that allow you to cultivate real style. They get such a bad reputation from people who can’t see past the packed aisles, dusty shelves and often uncoordinated selection, but for the patient and the determined, they’re a mecca of fabulousness that you can’t beat.
At this point in my life I understand how important it is not to purchase brand new clothing. The ways and rate at which it’s produced are doing incredible damage to the earth and how we view material items: to be consumed and thrown away like fast food. While I’m never opposed to donating what you don’t wear, there is a very real burden being placed on thrift stores around the country who are drowning in clothes they can’t sell fast enough.
The only upside to all this is that a thrift store will literally carry clothing for every style from practically every decade. Even the die-hard mall shoppers can find their favorite modern brands among the ‘80s shoulder pads. Not everyone, however, knows how to navigate the second hand world, so I thought I’d share some essential tips that have come in handy.
Always bring your phone fully charged. As someone who is always on the hunt for an amazing deal on vintage clothing, I always do a little research on pieces I think might be worth something. I do a quick Etsy search for the brand and label, and more often than not the dress I found sandwiched between an old graduation gown and ‘90s party dress is a 60-year-old gem the Mad Men costume department would drool over.
Wear light, adjustable clothing. Not all thrift stores are created equal. Sometimes you have to try things on right there in the aisle, and if you have to remove your coat, scarf, and heavy boots you’re going to be there all day, or worse, get frustrated and leave something really amazing behind because you weren’t sure it fit. I always wear a tight tank with an elastic waist skirt so that I can try on shorts or pants under the skirt and tops over. If you’re the type who is easily squeamish at the thought of wearing potentially unwashed clothes, take a measuring tape so gauge the fit of the clothing on your measurements.
Be kind. This is the most important tip I can share. I’ve worked for a few second hand businesses and I know firsthand how awful it is to have rude, messy, inconsiderate shoppers. If something falls on the floor, pick it up, even if you didn’t drop it. Many stores have the policy that if it’s missing a tag it cannot be sold: respect this. You have no idea how often stores are robbed or taken advantage of by customers who want to sweeten their already sweet deal. Usually if you’re kind enough to just let them know it’s missing a tag, they will reprice it and hold it for you for the next day if not right then. Which brings me to my last point: make friends with the employees. If they can get a feel for your style they usually let you know when stuff you like comes in. Always ask if you’re looking for something specific, chances are they’ll keep an eye out for you, and if you can leave your information with them, even better. The key to thrift shopping is to always be curious, patient and kind to reap the stylish rewards
