The most sustainable option is to use what you already have but when you need new items buying second-hand is the way to go!
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro I am sure you can grab a tip or two from this list to take with you on your next thrifting adventure!
1. Try on items
There is no worse feeling than thrifting something you love and then bringing it home only to find out it makes you look frumpy or is way too short for comfort. The lighting in the store’s dressing rooms is generally horrible but it is worth it to try things on to see if it works.
2. Try to imagine yourself wearing it (if you can’t try on)
There are definitely some unique and fun pieces that can be found at the thrift store. It may be a fun Halloween costume but will you really get a lot of use out of it? If not, it is not the most sustainable choice.
Also, think of items you already own that will work well with what you’re thinking of buying. Try to imagine how this new piece will fit seamlessly into the wardrobe you already have.
3. Make sure there aren’t holes, rips, stains or funny smells
Someone else owned the item which is fine unless the item is tarnished in some way. If you feel confident you can fix the issue then by all means get it!
4. Go thrifitng with an open mind
Some of my most favorite thrifting experiences are when I did not go into it with any expectations and I walked away with items I loved and needed. There have also been thrifting trips where I found nothing at all.
Bummer.
But it happens. Try being open to what you find or don’t and it is guaranteed to be a better experience.
5. Know your thrifting boundaries
Some things are ok to get second hand and others are not. Everyone is different but know what YOU are ok with thrifting. Some items to think of are underwear, swimsuits, bedding or active wear.
6. Shop at smaller and local thrift stores
When I think of second-hand shops the first that come to mind are Goodwill and Salvation Army. Do a quick Google search to find out what thrift stores are local to just your area. Sometimes these shops are more curated or have better quality items.
Also consider checking out vintage shops, flea markets, garage sales and estate sales. The more places you thrift the more opportunity there is to find what you are looking for!
7. Only buy what you need
All of the thrift stores I have been to have been filled to the brim with items made long ago or literally just produced (overstock from big retailers).
Before you purchase everything that catches your eye, consider if you actually need the item or if it will bring you a lot of joy. The most sustainable option is to use what we already have.
If you are feeling overwhelmed by trying to avoid fast fashion i’ve got some hopefully comforting thoughts on that topic here.
8. Consider thrifting apps & websites
Thrifting is now way more accessible than it was in the past. Some of my favorite online thrifting sites include
9. Find a good tailor, ask a friend or learn how to sew yourself!
Maybe you found the perfect item at the thrift store and you’re absolutely in love but it doesn’t fit quite right.
Someone can help with that.
The most affordable way to adjust the item is to learn how to sew. There are helpful videos and blog posts all over the internet. But there’s also nothing wrong with asking for help! We can’t all be expert tailors.
10. Know the discount days
Most shops have days where they offer discounts on different tag colors or types of items. Try to pick out those items to score even better deals. Also, if you are a student, military or senior there are sometimes discounts too.
11. Give yourself time to browse
Thrifting really is a treasure hunt! It takes patience and determination to find unique pieces that actually fit and are in good condition.
There is just no way around that.
This can make shopping second-hand fun or annoying. If you give yourself ample time for the hunt it is usually a better experience.
12. Bring a reusable bag
If you are thrifting you are most likely looking for affordable clothing or trying to minimize your impact on the planet. Don’t round off your trip with a plastic bag to carry home your goodies.
Do you have any thrifting tips you could add to this list? I would love to hear them in the comments below!
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Stay well,
Maggie
