How To Thrift Like A Pro
“Time Machine” vintage store in Amsterdam
Buying clothes in thrift stores can be motivated by several reasons. Wanting to impact the environment in a positive way, wanting to change your look while respecting a budget or simply liking to find treasures at low prices.
Personally, I discovered the world of thrift stores a few years ago thanks to a friend of mine and I have been going there regularly ever since. Over the years, I have acquired some techniques to find nice and cheap items.
Here is a list of tips to help you shop at the thrift store efficiently ;)
Have a goal in mind
When you go thrifting it’s always better to know what you’re looking for, it doesn’t have to be very specific but knowing the type of item you’re looking for will help you be more efficient and avoid being overwhelmed by all the clothes around you.
My technique is to make a list on my phone or create a board on Pinterest of what I need so it’s clearer in my mind.
2. Ranking thrift stores
It’s important to classify thrift stores according to their style and prices so that you can go directly to where you’ll be shopping. If you are looking for streetwear for example, you will go to the stores that provide items in this style. The best way to classify them, is to search on social media or internet and to go there to make your own opinion.
3. Know how to look for quality
You always have to keep an eye out when you go to a thrift store because it can happen that you come across items in bad condition.
The way I check will depend on the item I have in my hands. For pants and jeans, the first thing I look for is if there is any wear between the legs because if there is, chances are it will rip when you wear it.
With tops and shirts, I look to see if the sleeves are too loose, if there are holes in the armpits and if the fabric is worn because if it is, it is likely to get damaged in the wash.
4. Stay informed on new arrivals
Nowadays, many stores have social networks which allows customers to be notified when new items come into the store. I advise you to subscribe to the instagram accounts or others of the stores you are interested in so that you don’t miss any news. If the place doesn’t have socials, you can ask the vendor directly how often the new stock are coming in.
I hope you liked it ! Don’t hesitate to share in the comment space your treasures found thanks to the tips in the article ;)
