Macklemore may have made thrifting cool; but I’ve been thrifting long before he was singing about poppin’ tags. When I was just a little girl my mom would often drag me bring me along on Saturday shopping trips to numerous second hand stores. I admit I didn’t always love the thrill of the hunt back then. It wasn’t until my teenage years that I learned to love shopping vintage, and I now wish I had held on to some of my old Lacoste sweaters! As a newly married young woman I shopped second hand as a way of affording to furnish our home and still have money left over for food. Over the years, thrifting has become one of my favorite things to do, and I’ve found and continue to find treasures both for my wardrobe and for my home.
Here are a few my best thrifting tips.
1. Bring a shopping list and a tape measure.
This is where a “my home” design book would totally come in handy. Having a shopping list will help you sort through everything and focus on what you really need. It can also be hugely helpful to have the measurements needed and to have a tape measure with you. This way if you find a table you love you’ll be able to quickly and easily see if the size will work for your particular space.
2. Dress comfortably.
This is especially key if you’re going to make a day of it as there’s nothing worse than having sore feet and having to call it quits early. It’s also helpful to carry a messenger style bag or a shoulder bag so that you have your hands free to do things like measuring, inspecting (pulling out drawers to see if they’re dovetailed), or just carrying things up to the register (as many second hand stores don’t have shopping carts or baskets).
3. Be a collector.
It’s easy to become a hoarder if you’re not careful. Sticking to collections helps to keep that from happening and also helps you to make better purchase decisions. I collect vintage earrings, handbags and luggage.
4. Keep an open mind.
Often times a good cleaning or a paint makeover can make all the difference, so it’s important to keep an open mind.
5. Buy what you love.
Every time you go thrifting won’t be a win and that’s okay. I’ve come home empty handed many times.
6. Ask questions.
Don’t be afraid to ask if a set can be broken up – maybe it’s a set of 8 chairs but you only want one or two. If you’re buying multiple items, don’t be afraid to ask for a discount or a special deal – it never hurts to ask. Also, if you see something you love but you have no way to get it home, ask if they offer delivery or if they’ll hold it for you. You’d be surprised how many places offer delivery and sometimes even at no cost to you!
Are you a thrifty tag popper? Show us your thrifty finds on Twitter and Instagram with hashtag #TheChic.
